Beginning May 16, Parks-Bentley Celebrates 250 Years for the US, Moreau, and for the Parks-Bentley House 

The Moreau and South Glens Falls Historical Society, headquartered at Parks-Bentley Place in South Glens Falls, opens its 2026 season with a special video exhibition about Moreau and surrounding areas in the time of our nation’s Declaration of Independence. In addition, this summer’s exhibition will include a display of “History Mysteries” arranged throughout the Parks-Bentley house, which was erected in 1776 by Daniel Parks.

In addition to the video and exhibition, which will be on display throughout the summer, there will be an educational program focused on the Underground Railroad. This event, Escape to Freedom, is scheduled for July 18th at 12:30 pm and is free to the public. Attendees, especially children, will have the opportunity to participate in simulation of what it was like for slaves working on plantations and follows the slaves as they escape to freedom in the North. Also included is information found on Underground Railroad quilts and a visit to the hiding place in the main house where slaves might have stayed to escape capture.

Parks-Bentley Place is open to the public on Saturdays from noon – 4 pm from May 16 through mid-September. Features of the historic complex include the 1766/1830 house, an 1812 one-room schoolhouse, an 1800s tool shed and a fully equipped summer kitchen. 

The Historical Society, housed at Parks-Bentley Place, also provides educational programming throughout the year. Groups interested in requesting a presentation are asked to call Nancy at 518-636-3856.

The Historical Society maintains its headquarters at Parks-Bentley Place at 35 Ferry Boulevard in South Glens Falls. This historic home is one of the three oldest buildings in South Glens Falls but is the only one open to the public. Free tours are available during open hours; donations are appreciated. Private tours are available for $5 per person (minimum of $75 for groups). 

For more information about Parks-Bentley Place, visit the Society’s website – parksbentleyplace.org.