Artifact Spotlight: Balopticon c.1917

This artifact from the museum is a product of the Bausch and Lomb Company they called a “Home Balopticon”, one of their line of products of “Magic Lanterns”. This model has an indication of its patent Feb. 9 – 1915/ May 1- 1917, which gives us a date to work with for this artifact as late 1910s, possibly 1920s. What is a magic lantern? The early versions of these devices were invented in the 1600s, most likely by Dutch scientist Christiaan Huygens, and projected images on moving pieces of glass by illuminating them by candlelight.

As technology changed, so did these devices, becoming a common form of entertainment and education in Europe by the 18^th century. The first use of them in the United States is recorded as December 3, 1743 in Salem, Massachusetts and most likely incorporated the use of oil lamps. “Limelight” – created by a piece of limestone in burning gas until incandescent – was used in the 19^th century, along with kerosene oil. Neither were very bright but accomplished the job with a greater degree of safety that they could be used in a wider capacity. Churches, schools, fraternal societies and even home/toy versions were introduced. They experienced a boom in popularity with electric illumination in the early 20^th century, especially in America.

The Bausch & Lomb Company began in 1853 by German immigrant, John Jacob Bausch in Rochester, N.Y. He partnered with Henry Lomb, also an immigrant to the United States as a result of the German revolution of 1848. They greatly aided and advanced the field of optical technology, from rubber eyeglass frames of vulcanized rubber (revolutionary material at the time) to the first photographic lens in 1883, to the first producer of optical quality glass in the United States in 1912.  Bausch & Lomb produced 40,000 pounds of glass during the 1910s, particularly for the United States government by supplying 65% of its needs in the form of binoculars, rifle scopes, telescopes and searchlights in World War I.

The Balopticon (combining “ba” from Bausch, “lo” from Lomb, “opti” from optical and “co” for company) was first produced in 1911. The 1917 Bausch & Lomb Optical Co. Projection Apparatus booklet describes the Home Balotpicon in this way:

“This Balopticon has been designed to meet the popular demand for a really efficient, but inexpensive instrument, for the projection of post cards, photographs and similar objects in the home, the small classroom and the Sunday school room….It is so simple in operating that any child can operate it, yet it far excels the ordinary post card projector in the quality of the picture produced, the illumination and its wide range of usefulness.”

The device operated by placing an object like a postcard on the bottom of the inside chamber, rather than in the wall like previous magic lantern devices – a bonus to those wanting to project a solid object like a coin or curios or wanted to avoid cutting up a book or magazine to display a portion of the paper. It also allowed for easier changing of items. An interior mirror brings the image into the correct left to right position when projected out the lens for the audience. It operated on 400-watt gas-filled Mazda lamps. Also, according to some sources, the interior chamber was also insulated with asbestos…but not in the company’s official apparatus booklet so maybe, but maybe not.

Like with any good product, there were add-ons that could also be purchased. A larger screen for classroom use could be purchased, lamps of higher voltage, and even the option of purchasing a carrying case. Of course, keeping it simple, you could be a standard or a combination model. Or even one recommended for English Departments that has a larger opening in the bottom of the dark interior chamber.

The version in the museum doesn’t appear to be a combination model, as it is missing the portion directly under the lens. This allowed for an aluminum screen and lantern slide equipment to be attached, with bellows and a front standard carrying a smaller achromatic projection lens in a spiral focusing mount, producing pictures from slides rather than opaque objects. It’s also missing its cord to be plugged in so there won’t be any demonstrations in the near future it seems.

So how much would this precursor to an overhead projector cost you? In this 1917 booklet, the models range from $35, $45, and $84. That roughly would be in today’s money $701.08, $901.39, and $1,682.59.

Waterford's Hamilton Connection

On a scale of 1 to 10, Waterford's "Hamilton Connection" everyone seems to have scrambled for the past few years is a solid....2....maybe a 3 if you're feeling generous.

Is the Hamilton craze over though? It was everywhere last year when the musical was in town. Anyway, for those still interested and since this article was started last year but hadn't had the research time to fully flush it out, Waterford does have a connection.

Nothing like a musical to get people's attention....because it wasn't like his face has been staring at you from the ten dollar bill for a while, right?

Fun fact: Hamilton is the only person continuously printed on currency since printing began in 1861 and is the only one facing led while everybody else faces right. He's also one of two people on bills who never served as President and is the only person on a bill who wasn't born in the United States. Check out more interesting trivia about Hamilton on $2, $5, $10 and other bills at allthingshamilton.com

So how does Waterford connect with this man's history? Family Property

Like with any family tree, it can get a little difficult trying to keep who's who straight. Here's a brief summary: the Van Schaicks, the Schuylers, the Lansings, the Livingstons, the Rensselaers, and a bunch of other notable families strategically connected their families - and properties - through marriage.

Waterford was part of the Halfmoon patent, otherwise known officially as the Van Schaick Patent. It can be seen on this map of what is now Saratoga County from "Saratoga County Communities An Historical Perspective". Waterford is way down at the bottom of Saratoga County. Originally a par of Albany County wen districts were first outlined in 1683, Saratoga County was formed in 1791 during one of several partitions of Albany County. Haver/Havre or Peebles Island didn't become a part of Saratoga County until 1888.

Captain Goosen Gerritsen Van Schaick (1630-1676) held the Van Schaick patent. He had children from two marriages. His daughter Engeltie Van Schaick from his second wife, Annatje Lievens/ Lievers married Pieter Schuyler (1657-1724), the first mayor of Albany.

Engeltie's and Pieter's daughter, Margarita Schuyler, married Robert Livingston the Younger. Their daughter, Angelica Livingston married Johannes Van Rensselaer. And their daughter, Catherine Van Rensselaer married Philip Schuyler (1733-1804). Yes, they were cousins.

Philip Schuyler and Catherine Van Rensselaer were the parents of Elizabeth Schuyler, who married Alexander Hamilton in 1780 at the Schuyler Mansion in Albany. This is a color print of Schuyler Mansion by Philip Hooker (1818), New York Historical Society.

It was Major General Philip Schuyler who directed Polish engineer Andrzej Tadeusz Bonawentura Kosciuszko (aka Thaddeus Kosciusko of the "Twin Bridges" Bridge) to build the 177 fortifications found on the northern portion of Peebles Island in Waterford during the Revolutionary War. While not preserved in their entirety, these never-used fortifications were to act as a last resort in preventing a British march to Albany if Saratoga had not been successful. And it also helped create a visual Patriot presence for the Loyalist population in Lansingburgh that had been chummy with independent Vermont during Vermont's brief and unrecognized claim over the eastern shore of the Hudson River....but that's another story.

Engeltie Van Schaick had half siblings too, which included Geertje Goosense van Schaick. She first married Hendrick Coster, which is why the area colloquially known as "Dial City" (or Doyle depending on who you asked) was first known and labeled on maps as "Coster's Island".  This 1844 survey map, titled "Map of Lands Described in a Deed of Mrs. Annatie Lievers, widow and relict of Captain Goose Vanschaick to Roelof Garretse. Dated Feb. 4, 1687/7" depicts this area as such.

After Hendrick's death, Geertje remarried to Johannes Gerritse Lansing, great-uncle of Abraham Jacob Lansing, founder of Lansingburgh. Their daughter, Elizabeth Lansing (1679-1754) married Stephanus Groesbeck (~1662-1744). Elizabeth's and Stephanus' daughter, Catherine Groesbeck (~1705-1758) married Pieter Schuyler Jr. (1696-1753). Pieter Jr. was the son of Pieter Schuyler (1657-1724) and his second wife, Maria Van Rensselaer. Which makes Margarita Schuyler and Pieter Schuyler Jr. both half-siblings and cousins.

Pieter Schuyler's sister, Alida Schuyler (1656-1727) married Nicholas Van Rensselaer (1636-1678;no children) and then remarried Robert Livingston the Elder (1654-1728). Her second husband was the uncle of Robert Livingston the Younger (husband of Margarita Schuyler, Alida's niece).

Ultimately, it meant that there were a lot of cousins of some variety that either lived, or most likely, owned, the areas of and around what is now the Town and Village of Waterford. Visiting relatives and/or properties, would have brought Alexander Hamilton to the area.

Hamilton would've also visited the Waterford area for reasons other than family connections, as most relatives lived in Albany as he did. His involvement in the Revolutionary War as an Aide to General George Washington led to his visiting Saratoga - his father-in-law's estate - with Washington in 1783. They ventured into Waterford, likely stopping at the Eagle Tavern on Second Street before staying the night at the Widow Peebles' inn on Hudson River Road.

Hamilton's law practice also brought him into Saratoga County in 1796 to help settle a dispute over land titles. Most early court records of the county tend to focus on this particular feature of law disputes. The lawyers representing land owners in this then relatively undeveloped area of Saratoga County, at least since surveys began in 1770, would meet in the "old red meeting house" in Ballston Spa before the first courthouse was constructed in 1819 (seen above). Hamilton went to represent his father-in-law Philip Schuyler for this particular dispute. But it meant he would have traveled into Waterford from Albany on his way to do so.

Where might Alexander Hamilton have stayed during his travels? In addition to places like the Widow Peebles' inn and Eagle Tavern (which may or may not have actually also served as an inn), General Samuel Stewart's home on Broad Street received distinguished  guests. According to Waterford historian Col. Sydney Hammersley, this house (built c. 1802), had several ornate fireplaces. One of these had a bust of Alexander Hamilton carved into the mantle due to being a frequent guest.

So what can you do to trace Hamilton's footsteps in Waterford? The Eagle Tavern is no more, long since demolished and replaced by a Victorian home. The home of Gen. Stewart was used as the local order of the Masonic temple, which is now for sale so no visitors are allowed inside to try and spot this fabled fireplace bust. The Widow Peebles' inn is also a private residence. 

But that doesn't mean you can't walk along Second Street to view the marker for Eagle Tavern and other historic sites and visit Knickerbacker Park on Broad Street to view the old Masonic Temple. And, of course, you can always visit the museum to learn more about what Waterford was like at the time of Hamilton would have visited....once we eventually get around to opening again. 

Artifact Spotlight: Blizzard Lantern

This kerosene lantern has “BLIZZARD LANTERN” stamped onto it, giving a hint to it being a Dietz Cold Blast Blizzard Lantern 2 from c. 1899 – 1936. 

A quick internet search for this and other Dietz lantern models had the company name either on the glass or possibly the base of the lantern. This is a good example of the differences between working on site every day versus remotely. Relying on photographs like this can only get you so far since the writing on the glass gets too blurry to make out when enlarged. A great opportunity to volunteer at the museum – help us take photographs for our database!!!

However, the overall tubular design of this model has significant resemblance to the Blizzard model created by Dietz, as seen in this 1926 advertisement.

The purpose of this lantern should be pretty self-explanatory: lighting. Until the late 1910s, much of commercial, industrial, and domestic lighting relied on combustible fuels like whale oil and camphene, and later coal and kerosene oil. The R. E. Dietz Company, created and led by Robert Edwin Dietz in 1840 in Brooklyn, N.Y, manufactured hundreds of models of lanterns and patents. Their design improved air flow in the tube and allowed for the flame to burn brighter and last longer. As a “cold blast” design, only fresh, cold air was fed to the flame as opposed to partially heated air mixed with fresh air that a “hot blast” lantern used to promote combustion – usually a “dead flame” technique was used in which fresh air was drawn in from below the burner and the hot exhaust escapes from the top.

These lanterns were widely used and Robert employed a good marketing technique by gifting them to celebrities of the day to promote them. It was successful and Dietz’ Hot Blast lanterns – as well as various imitations of their models – were dominating the market. Tinned steel burners were introduced around the same time as this Blizzard cold blast lantern was introduced – and is still sold today. If you want a version of your own, you can click HERE.

So where in Waterford might this have been used? 
Anywhere. 

Yup, can’t really narrow it down too much. If you thought exclusively “railroad lantern” when you first saw this artifact, you’d be in good company. Without being able to definitely read the wording on the glass, it can be speculated that it might have the initials D.H. on it, possibly for the Delaware & Hudson Railroad. But again, that’s something that requires a better look at the artifact rather than a database photograph. 

Armspear Railroad Lantern 
c. 1925

While railroads were known to use “tubular” or “barn” lanterns, there are specific styles designated for railroads. And these tubular/barn styles were used by so many other companies like Water Works, and by private residences.

One of a few lanterns that are in the museum’s collection, this particular artifact also shares the unfortunate situation of not having any of the donor’s information or provenance – the history of ownership and location of an item. While you might think that’s just for art pieces to help confirm authenticity, the same thing applies for artifacts, no matter what they may be (it also helps with legality issues over ownership too, should they ever pop up). 

That information, even if it’s just “something I found in my grandmother's attic”, gives historians a start. It’s a hard thing to admit, but unless we’ve specialized in the history of that particular item, usually historians are looking at an item the same way you are – “Hey, that’s cool – what is it?” 

But museums like the Waterford Historical Museum are always eager to explore the history to the best of our ability. It can be like story-time, a puzzle, and time-travel with these artifacts!

Teaching in 1841: a Waterford Waldron's school book

This book in the museum’s collection is titled, “The American Preceptor; Being A New Selection Of Lessons For Reading And Speaking Designed For The Use Of Schools”. This edition was printed in 1813 and used by an early Waterfordian, Cornelius Waldron. 

This book, besides being an educational tool, was also clearly used as an art canvass for Cornelius. The words in the caption bubble of this doodle haven’t been deciphered yet, but this little dude doodle shows up on another page too.

View looking north on 3rd St. from Waldron Store on corner
of 3rd & Broad St. Photo taken prior to 1913 flood that destroyed 
the old Presbyterian Church. Local newspapers note the law 
business of A.C. Waldron and that of  Wm. Waldron,
as well as a market by R.C Waldron listed sometimes
as "Union Market"

There was a C. A. Waldron who lived at 22 Third Street. He had a noteworthy legal career, working with Congressman David L. Seymour in 1851, elected Justice of the Peace in 1853, elected Justice of Sessions of the country in 1853, and elected Surrogate of Saratoga County from 1855 until 1877.

In his obituary, a section was dedicated to highlighting that only one of his many thousands of orders was ever reversed. He was heavily involved in the community, being a member of: Waterford Chapter, Apollo Commandery of Troy, Clinton Masonic Lodge, “the Shrine”, the Masonic Veterans’ Association of Troy, Saratoga Lodge of Elks, the Holland Society, the Waterford Country Club, Post Sheriden (associate member), Saratoga County Bar Association (Vice President), and was a Trustee of the Presbyterian Church of Waterford.

But there appears to also be a Cornelius L. Waldron, according to the obituary of Robert C. Waldron. He’s listed as Robert’s brother and the ex-Surrogate, which was also attributed to Cornelius A. Waldron. So….without being able to trace a family tree for Waterford Waldrons, this may be a typo or maybe Cornelius was a common name for the Waldron family and practicing law was part of family tradition???

This photograph is recorded as that of "C.A. Waldron" in the museum's collection.

What is known about Cornelius Waldron is that he was born July 23, 1829 in Lansingburgh and lived in Waterford on Broad Street until his death in 1912. He studied at the “old Waterford Academy”, which is where he most likely used this book. Included with his name in this book is the date 1841.  Cornelius would have been 12 years old at this time, making use of this book as well as any other 12 year-old student. 

The American Preceptor was widely used for teaching, with 600,000 copies sold. First printed in 1794, it went through fifty-five editions by 1818. It is thought that it remained a staple teaching tool until at least 1837 – longer for some places, like Waterford. This book is a collection of speeches, excerpts from plays, poetry and other short texts. These excerpts were selected not just for teaching purposes, but also to convey a sense of religious or moral piety and patriotism. In its preface, the author, Caleb Bingham writes, “In making selections for the following work, a preference has been given to the productions of American genius.”

He continues with how he envisioned students like Cornelius Waldron to be taught with this book by explaining, “For the conveniency of large classes, the several pieces are divided into paragraphs of a moderate length; the utility of which, those conversant in the instruction of youth will readily discover. Instructors are assured that the inconveniency arising from the frequent alterations in the different editions of schoolbooks will never be experienced in this.” 

Notably not included? The author made sure to include in his remarks the necessity of not “instilling false notions in the minds of children” and so “Tales of love have not gained admission”.

Artifact Spotlight: The Doty Vacuum c.1900

Following the trend from last week’s artifact – and considering some of us are still waiting to get to Phase 1 of reopening in New York State, like us – this spotlight is on another household item: the vacuum.

While our feline friends and canine companions may not consider these items anything other than a nuisance, vacuums have developed into a commonplace item. The Roomba has gifted us with many amusing cat videos at least.

The history of the vacuum is tied with the development of the broom - as brooms became sturdier and therefore more effective cleaning tools, inventors in the late 1700s and early 1800s produced types of mechanical sweepers for streets, floors and carpets.

These manual systems of pulleys and cranks to rotate the brush and push dirt into a receptacle. The next step was the creation of vacuum cleaners with bellows. The first design of what we would recognize as a vacuum cleaner is the 1860 design by Daniel Hess, which incorporated a manually-operated bellows to create suction and raw in dirt.

This is an example of one such bellows-operated vacuum, created by the Ohio—based company, The Doty Manufacturing Company. This model was used in the early 1900s, ranging from c.1900 –1912.   The wheels powered a crankshaft as it was moved along the carpet/floor, which pushed rods connected to one or 2 bellows to produce continuous suction.

However, by 1913, manual devices were less popular thanks to the more efficient electric models that became available. For more rural areas that took longer to undergo electrification (into the 1930s), “The Doty” and similar models were lightweight and used into the 1940s.

Impact of COVID-19 on WHMCC

You Can Support The Museum!

Please consider making a monetary donation by following this link HERE to donate through PayPal - you don't need an account to donate this way, you can also use a debit or credit card. you can also keep us in mind when purchasing from Amazon. Use Amazon Smile and select as the nonprofit the Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Centre so that a percentage of your total is matched by Amazon and donated to the museum. Checks - as "outdated" as some may find them - are still good too. Or consider donating supplies to becoming a volunteer. Becoming involved is a great way to support the museum!

Our map-centered exhibit planned for this year, “Waterford: A Changing Landscape”, will be postponed and the museum hopes to offer this and our other exhibit spaces to the public when New York State begins phased openings of museum institutions. Museums are part of NY Forward Phase 4, tentatively set for June 26.

The museum is considering all potential plans to open and maintain the guidelines being outlined to ensure continued observance of health and safety measures the State and the CDC have outlined for all places open to the public.

We have also had to cancel our Canalways educational program for 4^th graders that is held at Lock 2, the Champlain Canal Trail, and the Hurst Visitors Center that had been scheduled for June of this year. We are sad to not be able to engage with students this year in hands-on learning experiences. Canalways is currently the only program the museum has been able to offer to students due to limited staff, volunteers, and funds.

This program is only possible thanks to the amazing collaboration with our partners, the NYS Canal Corporation, the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, the Waterford Canal and Towpath Society, and the Town of Waterford and the volunteers from each partner that ensure content and guides can be offered to students. This crisis has shown that the museum needs to also consider potential alternatives to the usual large group field-trips of the past. One of the museum’s goals moving forward will to be determine the feasibility of additional programs to offer to students. While educational in value to students, this program also serves as a major fundraiser for the museum, just like special events hosted by the museum like Trivia Night - the most recent event that we unfortunately had to cancel. The museum relies on private funds and volunteer support to continue to meet its mission of preserving and sharing Waterford’s heritage and past.

Small museums like us across the country have struggled with having to remain temporarily closed and cancel programs and events that are relied upon to maintain their operating budget. Overnight, museums lost 2/3 of their income when shutdown occurred. While museums are “closed” to the public, we have been more active than ever before in addressing changes in offering educational programs, exhibits, and events to the public.

Artifact Spotlight

Soap shaker aka soap cage used to hold a bar or flakes of soap in the collection
 of the Waterford Historical Museum & Cultural Center

Some task that have continued to be a necessity during quarantine are washing the dishes and doing the laundry.  Or, at least, for those with some sense of normalcy that can keep up with the laundry. Be honest - you know of at least one person who is okay with going the day sans pants. 

Today’s laundry machines have the option of using pods or liquid detergent to clean your clothes and, if you’re splurging, make your fabrics soft and cozy. But those detergents weren’t used until Procter & Gamble introduced the first in 1933. Called “Dreft”, it could only handle lightly soiled jobs. Eventually Tide was created in 1943, introduced in October 1946 as the world’s first heavy-duty detergent. Prior to these detergents, plain old soap was used to clean grease and dirt as best as possible. 

Soap shakers, also known as soap cages, were commonly used from the 1920s and into the 1980s. Lye soap was the go-to soap for a long time when cleaning clothes. This was rough on the hands and eventually a tallow-based soap became popular. Flakes of soap could be added to the cage to make the most from every scrap. This was used in tubs and washing machines. 

1920s washing machine

But these soap flakes had a couple downsides:  It performed poorly in hard water, leaving a ring in the washing machines, and often dulled colors and tuned whites gray. 

Devices like this metal soap cage were used in laundry, but also for washing dishes. This small device was donated to the Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center by Mrs. Egbert Mayell.

Throwback 2019-2020 Lecture Series - The Final Part!

Our last lecture of the 2019-2020 season was held on March 10^th, very close to the shutdown of everything in the state and country. It was still a wonderful show of support from our members, who enjoyed a great presentation by Saratoga National Park Ranger, Eric Schnitzer on portraying Catherine Schuyler. 

Using this painting of General Philip Schuyler’s wife, he explored how art pieces were produced in this era. Painted by travelling artist Thomas McIlworth (fl. 1757-1768) in ca. 1765, it has elements that are noticeably familiar looking to other portraits of this time. Some myths have developed about the nature of travelling artists of this time that might misled interpreting how this portrait’s familiar traits would’ve showed up. Was it because these artists would have model bodies already drawn that they would then draw their patron’s heads on so as to make these pieces as quickly as possible? 

Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site

Artists would start with the face and then flesh out the body of their patron. There aren’t many examples of the process of making these sorts of artworks – supplies are also money and artists reused what they could whenever they could, and personal techniques weren’t always meticulously written down. 

But, the few examples that have been preserved, drawing the face was the first step. There are instances of artworks that show disproportioned figures, which could easily give the impression that this myth was true when looking at figures with either too large or too small heads. 

Aside from the artist having a bad day, often their patrons had specific features they wanted to highlight that would cause the artists to get creative with what progress they had been making on their painting. 

An example used in this presentation is the portrait of Colonel John Cox (1778) that was painted by Charles Wilson Peale, which portrays a bit of a bobble-head-like appearance that is likely due to the Colonel’s desire to include his shoulders and therefore the uniform feature that highlighted his military rank. 

It was important to keep the customer happy for obvious reasons, but also because many artists were commissioned for a variety of projects and would make house calls rather than the concept of a studio – it’s unknown if McIlworth would have had a card to advertise or ever took out an ad in a local newspaper, but word of mouth definitely was something he and many others utilized. 

But if these similarities weren’t the product of pre-made portraits just waiting for a face, why were there so many similar features? It’s not as complicated as you may think – you need only look at the latest trend of TikTok dances.

Many well-off patrons who could afford to have a private portrait like the Schuylers that wanted to highlight their best features also want to emulate those trend-setters with many other women seen in a similar style dress and pose. Those business cards often had prints of certain portraits to promote the style as something they could recreate with their patron as their focus. 

These body templates were then customized. Catherine Schuyler was influenced by the portrait of Lady Elizabeth Gunning, Duchess of Hamilton that was created in 1751 by James McArdell. You can very clearly see the similarities in pose, the style of dress, and the obvious imitation of the flower arrangement worn by both women in their portraits.

But there is one feature that stands out from all the other women in this pose and similar-style dress – apparently she had strabismus, also known as lazy eye or wall eye. 

It’s not sure if this was an instance of how the artist drew eyes (there are a few other portraits) or if this was true to her appearance. Either way, this portrait would have had a place of prominence and serves as a way to preserve history.

Many small museums are suffering from the impact of the COVID-19 shutdown and WHMCC is no different with the postponement of our exhibit spaces and the cancellation of much-needed and relied upon fundraising programs and special events. We would love to invite you to consider supporting the museum or take part in the many volunteer opportunities at the museum - WHMCC is not tax-funded or guaranteed funds from any municipality and is run primarily by a volunteer board and its one part-time staff. 

Any help is always appreciated, like attended these fun programs and events. While we don't know when exactly we'll be able to get back to "normal" and offer exhibits and events during the 2020 summer season, the museum hopes to see everyone again soon!

Throwback 2019-2020 Lecture Series - Part 3

Board Member P. Thomas Carroll shared an informative presentation on the history associated with the Kate Mullany National Historic Site, and its plans for moving forward when he joined us for the museum’s February 2020 lecture at the Van Schaick Island Country Club. 

Kate Mullany was born in England around 1845 to Irish parents, coming to NYC in 1850 before moving to Troy in 1853. Kate and her siblings worked in the profitable factories that gave Troy its alias as Collar City. Women were 80% of the workforce in this industry, working as collar sewers and laundresses for up to 14 hours a day at a rate of $3 a week. Putting that salary into perspective, it was actually half an average household’s income in those days. In 1864, these workers held a strike, prompted by the greenback inflation from the Civil War. As part of this strike, Kate Mullany organized the Collar Laundry Union (CLU) in February 1864 – this was the first all-women’s union. 

The 1864 strike lasted 5 ½ days across 14 laundries, succeeding in winning a 25% wage increase and earning support from Troy Iron Molders Union No. 2 and the larger “Worker City” community, including William H. Sylvis, Iron Molders International Union President. That year, the family purchased the property at 350-352 Eighth Street. Kate was appointed Assistant Secretary of the National Labor Union - the first national female union officer. She led strikes in 1866, March 1869 and May 1869 to protest the level of workers’ wages. 

Manufacturers also organized after suffering from the inflation and continuous strikes, pressuring laundry owners to hold out, recruiting scabs, launching local advertising, and refusing to send collars and cuffs to organized laundry. Kate reported to her followers that as a result of negotiations, the employers were willing to offer a pay increase but it would be at the expense of union membership. Workers chose to take the extra pay, and the CLU established the Union Line Collar and Cuff Manufactory Cooperative in an attempt to continue their efforts. Ultimately the CLU dissolved in 1869. Kate moved to Buffalo around 1870, married John Fogarty, and owned a laundry named “Troy Laundry”.  In 1906, she died at Eighth Street and was buried in St. Peter’s Cemetery. A Celtic cross was erected at the formerly unmarked gravesite, dedicated September 1999.

The property was designated a National Historic Site by Congress in 2005, and was included in New York State’s Women Heritage Trail in 2007 (the only site representing working class women). The site has seen activity like an archaeological study, conducted by Hartgen Archaeological Associates in 2007. A historic Structure Report by John G. Waite Associates was completed in January 2010. The property adjacent to the house at the corner of Eighth and Hoosick streets was purchased in 2004 by the American Labor Studies Center to create a park to honor trade union women pioneers. The house acts as the home of the American Labor Studies Center on the second floor, the first serving as a museum and the third under restoration to become a recreation of the apartment on this floor that the Mullany family lived in while calling this building home.

Throwback 2019-2020 Lecture Series - Part 2

Hudson Mohawk Industrial Gateway Executive Director, Michael Barrett, shared a presentation on the Trans-Continental Railroad. A transportation feat that was a monumental undertaking in its time, it had some local names attached to its creation as these families expanded west with the country. Built between 1863 and 1869, it connected existing train lines to the Pacific Coast.  

Some familiar names tied to this project that have some local significance (or at least well recognized as influential in New York history) are Charles Crocker, Theodore Judah, Leland Stanford, Brigham Young  and Thomas C. Durant. Many others were involved in this venture, with fortunes made through investments - some more honest than others. Another local note: the engines used in the ceremonial opening of the lines had parts with iron from the Burden Iron Works. 

Thea brought several resources that attendees could look over
 before and after her presentation. There was a great level of
 audience engagement with her lecture as well!

Thea Hotaling, owner and historian of Brookwood Historic Building presented her extensive research on the history of the Peebles family for our lecture at the start of 2020. It was a full house - we even had to drag a few tables over to include everyone who wanted to hear about this prominent family with ties to Waterford, Halfmoon, and Albany. Of course, there is some obvious name recognition with Peebles Island State Park as well, as the family did own this island in the Mohawk River delta that now serves as a New York State Park and site of the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

The original owners of the property that is now referred to as Brookwood, were the Peebles family. It was a lucrative piece of property even its early days, being ~15,000 acres beside the Hudson River and having its own freshwater, as well as being situated alongside the Great Highway from Albany to Canada. Thomas Peebles married Elizabeth Bradt of Albany, from one of the early Dutch families of Albany - her father was Gerrit Bradt (son of Daniel Bradt and Elizabeth Lansing) and her mother was Maria ten Eyck. Those are all some recognizable local names- Oh, and her grandmother is Geeritjia Van Schaick...so essentially relatives were everywhere in the neighboring communities. Which might've influenced the decision to brave the then frontier-like area of this this estate. The Peebles manor was constructed in 1763, becoming one of the 12 founding families of the Waterford/Halfmoon (Halve Maen). 

Thomas had been  appointed by the royal authority in 1770 as a Justice of the Peace for "the territory consisting of Saratoga County". After he passed in 1774, he was buried on a small knoll on the property by "Brookwood Creek" that began the family cemetery. Elizabeth had five children to support, which she did by transforming her manor into an inn and tavern that became known as the Widow Peebles’ place. It was marked as such on maps like the 1779 Isaac Vrooman map commissioned by George Washington.  . 

In 1783, when notable figures like Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Governor Clinton were on route to see the battlefields at Bemis Heights, they stayed at this inn, referencing it in letters. This likely contributed to Elizabeth's mention in the 1788 list of innkeepers - the only woman to be included. The tavern continued to host notable figures, like James Madison and Thomas Jefferson who were also touring the revolutionary battlefields in 1791. The tavern was turned over in 1795 to her sons, being known as “The Child’ Place” before it eventually become known as Brookwood. The children became involved with the business, civic, political and religious development of the local area. 

Edward Lamson Henry's "Early Days of Rapid Transit". Albany Institute of History and Art

The property was well known locally but also was featured in “A Pocket Guide for the Tourist and Traveler along the line of the Canals and the interior Commerce of the state of New York”.  Tourism on the canal brought many to areas that otherwise would not have been traversed - Waterford had been at the height of sloop navigation on the Hudson River, but like today, many toured the route to see the engineering marvel and the sights of New York State. Packetboats like the one in this painting at the Albany Institute of History and Art were used frequently, waning in 1853 when railroads were completed around the state.

Hugh Peebles, the eldest child and to whom the inn's ownership and operation passed, served during the Revolutionary war in some significant positions, including as private secretary and Quartermaster for Colonel Jacobus Van Schoonhoven, the Saratoga Campaign, and likely one of the first companies to defend Bemis Heights under Gen. William Alexander.  In 1784, as the military representative, he signed the Treaty with the Six Nations at Fort Stanwix (and again in 1789 in Albany). He became an influential figure locally by serving as: Member of the Masonic Lodge in Albany (Master's Lodge No. 2), Queensbury Pay Master (military appointment 1786), an original board member of the first local public school system (1796), Justice of the Peace for Half-Moon (1797;1800), Halfmoon Commissioner of Taxes and Superintendents of Highways (1799) and even campaigned to become an Assemblyman for Saratoga County in 1799 (finished #7). Brookwood was passed along to his eldest child, Abbie, after his death in 1840.

His sister and the eldest daughter, Maria, married Abraham Livingston and settled in Stillwater. Livingston served in the 1st Canadian Regiment and was present at both battles of Saratoga, later serving as Captain in the New York Levies. The Peebles' third child, Rosanna(h) married John Welch, who also served in the Revolutionary Way in Col. Sheldon's Dragoons and was a part of the Burgoyne Campaign. They relocate to Welch's hometown of Litchfield, CT where they are buried. 

Peebles Island Cultural Resources Map 2000 depicting the boundary of the
NYS Park along with existing buildings and earthworks and the
 sites of former buildings and earthworks. 

Gerrit Peebles, was appointed Captain in the NY Militia in 1789 and married Elizabeth Survatt in 1799. He entered into the merchant business, becoming highly successful and influential in the local area. He moves to the growing Lansingburgh village in 1800 with his family, his wife and youngest son he tragically loses in 1811. He is elected Sheriff of Rensselaer ounty in 1813, remarrying in 1818 Maria Van Schaick (cousin to Maria Gansevoort Melville, mother of Herman Melville - again, some pretty recognizable names here). 

Gerrit purchased Haver (Oats) Island from the Van Schaick Family, after which the island took  the family name. By 1862, his son Anthony Augustus owns the entirety of the island. Gerrit died in 1841 and was buried on the family property, but later re-interred at Troy's Oakwood Cemetery.

The youngest, Gertrude Peebles, spent most of her childhood as her mother's right-hand person, sometimes being referenced in letters from travelers to the inn like Venezuelan Revolutionary, Fransico de Miranda . She married Benjamin Tibbits, the brother and partner of  the very successful mercantile firm G. & B. Tibbits Company, in 1793.  They had one son together before Benjamin met an untimely early death in 1802. She remarried in 1807 the widower Rev. Dr. Eliphalet Nott, clergyman, education, scientists/inventor of over 30 patents, and business (he also became nationally known in 1804 for his sermon on the "Death of Alexander Hamilton"). She moved to Schenectady with Nott and they have a son in 1809 - it is largely with Gertrude's assets that Nott buys substantial land here and laid the foundation for the expansion and growth of Union College, of which he was also president (and RPI too).

A connection to the White family: Gerrit Peebles, was a trustee of the Cohoes Manufacturing Company (incorporated 1811), which later sold the property to the Cohoes Company, which Hugh White was one of the incorporators and served as its president.

Photo from the Library of Congress taken 1969 by Jack Boucher. There are a few more worth checking out that show water still in the Cohoes Power Canal at this point, which is now the Power Canal Park by the Harmony Mill Lofts.