The Greater Oneonta Historical Society is looking forward to a busy 2024.
This year, GOHS plans to open two special exhibits. In February, we will open “Pandemics and Public Health in Oneonta,” a small panel display exploring the history of public health and pandemics in Oneonta in the 20th century. Programs to coincide with the display include a book talk led by GOHS Board Member Dr. Matthew Hendley, SUNY Oneonta professor and editor of “Chronicling a Crisis: SUNY Oneonta’s Pandemic Diaries” (November 2023). Then, this summer, GOHS will work with our friend Doug Decker to open an exhibit and accompanying programing on the life, career and musical stylings of famed Oneonta native Jerry Jeff Walker. And of course, we await the return of our spring and summer walking tour series.
GOHS will also continue our Hometown Heroes Banner Program in 2024. For the second year, the personalized banners will be displayed on the light poles throughout the town and city of Oneonta to celebrate and remind our community of our local veterans’ historic service, bravery, and dedication to our country. The banners will be displayed Memorial Day, May 27, through Veterans Day, Nov. 11. Learn more about the Hometown Heroes Program and download both the 2024 banner application and 2024 banner renewal application by visiting our website or stopping into the History Center when we’re open. The deadline for the 2024 Hometown Heroes Banner Program is March 22.
And do keep an eye out this spring and summer as GOHS hopes to bring a new set of state historical markers, funded by the Pomeroy Foundation, to the town and city of Oneonta.
In addition to our exhibits and programs, GOHS will undergo two essential building projects this spring: the replacement of our “Laskaris” entryway tile and the restoration of our exterior brickwork. Both projects are vital to the preservation of our building, the oldest brick building on Main Street. Once the tile and brickwork are complete, we will turn our attention to our next big project: the renovation of our historic third floor ballroom.
If you haven’t already, stop into the History Center at 183 Main St. when we’re open to visit “Small Community, Big Ideas: Greater Oneonta,” our interactive and object-rich permanent exhibit exploring the history of the town and city of Oneonta, opened in May 2022. And while you’re here, be sure to check out our Sally Mullen Children’s Corner, which offers activities and games for our young visitors, and our gift shop, which includes a wonderful selection of books and postcards, unique local goods, branded apparel and more. This spring, GOHS will be open from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
GOHS and its History Center promote Greater Oneonta’s past by collecting and preserving authentic objects and documents, disseminating knowledge, and providing stimulating educational experiences through dynamic programs and exhibits. Founded in 1939, GOHS, formerly the Upper Susquehanna Historical Society, provides free and accessible programs, exhibits, and research services to the local community. The Oneonta History Center, opened in 2005, is in the heart of downtown Oneonta and is committed to preserving the past for Oneonta’s future. We remain one of the only museums/historical societies in the city dedicated to the history of the greater Oneonta area. GOHS is a private, non-profit, non-partisan organization.
To learn more about GOHS and how you can support our organization, become a member, make a donation or donate to our collection, or to stay updated on our upcoming programs, events, and exhibitions, visit our website at www.oneontahistory.org, call 607-432-0960, email us at directormm@oneontahistory.org, mail us at PO Box 814, or follow us on our Facebook and Instagram pages @OneontaHistoricalSociety.
We are grateful for the continued support from our local community, and we look forward to seeing you at the History Center soon!