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July Brings History, Heritage, and Hands-On
Experiences to Constable Hall
Published: June 30, 2026 at
12:00 p.m.
By: Press Release
from Constable Hall
July Brings History, Heritage, and Hands-On
Experiences to Constable Hall
CONSTABLEVILLE,
N.Y. — From Revolutionary War history and America's 250th
anniversary to the elegance of the Gilded Age, birdwatching, and herb
gardening, Constable Hall is offering an extraordinary lineup of programs
throughout July that invites visitors of all ages to explore the past while
creating new memories.
Located in the
heart of Lewis County, the historic home of the Constable family will serve
as a gathering place where history comes alive through engaging
presentations, living history demonstrations,
interactive workshops, and a fascinating new museum exhibit.
Celebrating
America's 250th Anniversary
 The month begins on Sunday, July
5, with a special program commemorating the 250th Anniversary
of the United States. At 1:00 p.m., Constable Hall
Curator Peter Hayes will present an engaging look at the
difficult choices Americans faced during the Revolutionary War.
Rather than
simply recounting historical events, Hayes will challenge visitors to
consider the questions faced by ordinary citizens during the nation's
founding. Would they remain loyal to the British Crown or risk everything
by joining the rebellion? After independence, what kind of nation should
emerge?
Using the life
and relationships of William Constable as a guide, the
presentation will introduce many of the remarkable figures who shaped the
new nation, including Alexander Hamilton, Benedict Arnold, Aaron Burr, the
Marquis de Lafayette, and others. The program will also feature two
treasured historical artifacts and conclude with audience discussion.
The July 5
presentation is just one part of Constable Hall's broader celebration of
America's semiquincentennial.
Later in the
month, the Hall will host its largest-ever Servants
Day, featuring a full day of living history demonstrations and family
activities. Visitors will experience traditional crafts and skills that
were once part of everyday life through demonstrations including corn husk
doll making by Doris Wilkins Wilt of the Oneida Indian Nation, a working
farm demonstration featuring Anna Peck and her two-year-old Ayrshire
pulling logs, historic log-cutting demonstrations using a newly constructed
sawbuck built by resident Mountain Man Derek Carpenter, portable blacksmith
forge demonstrations by Jared Malone, beginning felting with Brittany
Marks, spinning and drop spindle demonstrations, and opportunities to
research Revolutionary War patriot ancestry with members of the Daughters
of the American Revolution. Peter Hayes will also present a special program
highlighting John Constable's contributions during the Revolutionary era.
A Real-Life
Connection to HBO's The Gilded Age
 Fans of HBO's hit series The
Gilded Age will find an unexpected connection at Constable Hall.
On Sunday,
July 12, at 1:00 p.m., the Hall will officially open its newest exhibit
during a special Gilded Age Reception.
The exhibit
explores one of America's most glamorous and transformative eras through an
impressive collection of period clothing, accessories, and artifacts while
highlighting the remarkable story of Dr. William Constable III.
Dr. Constable was
the son of William Constable, builder of Constable Hall, and grandson of
William Constable, whose involvement in the famous Macomb Purchase helped
create one of the largest land transactions in New York State history.
As an adult
living in New York City, Dr. Constable became President of the prestigious
Union Club, one of the nation's most exclusive social institutions during
the Gilded Age and a gathering place for many of America's wealthiest
industrialists, political leaders, and influential families.
The exhibit
reveals how the Constable family became connected to this remarkable period
of American history and offers visitors an opportunity to explore the
fashions, customs, and social traditions that defined the late nineteenth
century.
Whether visitors
are captivated by the glamour portrayed in The Gilded Age,
fascinated by New York history, or simply curious about Constable Hall's
place in America's story, the reception promises an afternoon filled with
history, elegance, and discovery.
Birds, Bluebirds,
and Bird Bingo
 Nature enthusiasts will enjoy a unique
outdoor program on Tuesday, July 14, from 6:00 to 8:00
p.m.
"Birding,
Bluebirds & Bingo" begins with a guided bird walk through
Constable Hall's beautiful grounds, where participants will explore local
bird habitats while learning birdwatching techniques and discovering useful
smartphone apps that enhance the birding
experience.
Following the
walk, Vici and Steven Diehl of the North Country Bird Club will present a
program about bluebirds, nest boxes, and monitoring techniques before
wrapping up the evening with an entertaining game of Bird Bingo, where
participants can test their new identification skills and win prizes.
Guests are
encouraged to bring binoculars, a cell phone, and plenty of curiosity. The
program is suitable for both beginning and experienced birders.
Harvesting the
Garden's Bounty
 The month's educational offerings
conclude on Sunday, July 19, at 1:00 p.m., with
"Harvesting and Using Herbs," presented by Sharon Stewart of
Garden Thyme Herbs.
Participants will
learn how to harvest herbs at their peak, discover practical ways to use
them in everyday cooking and home life, and help create sample herbal
products to take home. Recipes, gardening tips, and creative ideas will
also be shared.
The workshop
costs $10 for Constable Hall members and $15 for
non-members, with all proceeds benefiting the Historic Garden Fund,
helping preserve and enhance the Hall's beautiful historic gardens.
Registration is
recommended to ensure adequate supplies.
A Summer of
Discovery
Throughout July,
Constable Hall offers visitors an opportunity to experience history in
meaningful and engaging ways. From exploring America's founding during its
250th anniversary to uncovering surprising connections to the glamour of
the Gilded Age, learning traditional crafts, discovering local wildlife,
and gaining practical gardening knowledge, there is something for every
interest and every generation.
All events take
place at Constable Hall, 5909 John Street, Constableville.
For additional
information or to register for programs, contact Constable Hall or visit
its Facebook page for the latest updates.
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