Herkimer County Community College to Host Revolutionary War Symposium and “Liberty” Art Show
Herkimer County Community College (HCCC) will host a special Symposium on the Revolutionary War on Thursday, April 23 at 7 p.m. in Alumni Hall, followed by a “Liberty” Art Show and Reception and Awards Ceremony in the Cogar Gallery on Saturday, April 25 at 1 p.m.
This event is a collaboration between HCCC and Herkimer County’s 250th Commission, commemorating the region’s role in the American Revolution.
The symposium will bring together local educators and historians to explore key moments and perspectives from the American Revolution, with a particular focus on the Mohawk Valley’s historical significance.
Featured presentations include:
- “Turning Point at Oriskany: General Herkimer’s Crucial Victory in the American Revolution” by Logan D. Valerio, history teacher at Herkimer High School, who holds a master’s degree in secondary education (history) from SUNY Plattsburgh.
- “Seeds of Rebellion”, focusing on the Palatine Germans and their transformation from refugees to revolutionaries, presented by Sharon Powell, adjunct professor of history at HCCC, who holds a master’s degree in American history and political science from American Public University. Powell is also serving as chair of Herkimer County’s 250th Revolutionary War Commission.
- “Women Revolutionaries during the American Split with Britain” by Dr. Lisa Elwood-Farber, professor of English at Herkimer County Community College, who earned a Ph.D. from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
- “Fort Dayton: The Forgotten Fort” presented by Jeff Steele, professor of history at Herkimer County Community College, who holds a master’s degree in history from University at Albany.
In addition, the “Liberty” Art Show will feature creative works inspired by themes of freedom and revolution. The reception on April 25 will include light refreshments, a presentation, and recognition of participating artists.
Both events are free and open to the public.
For more information about the symposium, contact Sharon Powell at powellsm@herkimer.edu.
For more information about the art show, contact Associate Professor of Art Justin Como at comojm@herkimer.edu.