Listen or Watch Show 31

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History Mystery: A Revolutionary War Veteran and the Oriskany Woolen Mill

A historical illustration of a small town, featuring houses, factories, and a river, depicting the layout and architecture of the area.

Oneida County Historian Alexis Albright joins us at the Oriskany Museum to share a fascinating history mystery involving Revolutionary War veteran Gerrit Lansing. After serving at Yorktown under Hamilton and Lafayette, Lansing eventually settled in Oriskany and helped establish the village’s woolen industry. But what brought him to the Mohawk Valley? Alexis shares her research into Lansing’s life, the early days of the Oriskany woolen mill, and the Revolutionary War veterans who helped shape Oneida County.

The Robert Earl Diaries – Chapter 2: School Days, Politics and Life in 1880

A young boy wearing a cap is seated at a table, writing in a notebook with a pen. An ink bottle is placed on the table beside him.

Local actor Dexter Smith of Frankfort returns to bring the words of 12-year-old Robert Earl to life in Chapter 2 of The Robert Earl Diaries. This week, Robert attends school, practices his Latin, helps with chores and joins a boys’ Democratic club as the presidential election of 1880 approaches. We also uncover some fascinating connections to Herkimer’s history, with insights from historian James Greiner and the Herkimer County Historical Society.

The Red Goose – Farmer’s Almanac

Book cover for 'The Red Goose' by Allen Guy Wilcox featuring an illustrated red goose with decorative circular patterns.

We’re back in the barn at the Woodshill Rose Theater in Sauquoit for another poem from Allen’s collection, The Red Goose. This week, Allen shares “Farmer’s Almanac,” a playful reflection on gardening, the changing seasons, and the wisdom that comes from getting your hands dirty. As every gardener knows, there’s only so much you can learn from books!

A Colorful New Mural at the Clinton Cider Mill

A man and woman stand smiling in front of a colorful mural that says 'Keep Growing,' featuring various flowers and butterflies.

We visit the Clinton Cider Mill to catch up with local artists Tim Rand and Maria Vallese who have just completed a massive new mural celebrating the area’s history, nature and agricultural heritage. The two share the challenges of working four stories above the ground, how they combined their artistic styles, and what’s next — another mural planned for Clinton’s new hard cidery this spring. Stop by the Clinton Cider Mill on Elm Street to see their colorful creation in person!

Mohawk Valley Soundscape: Squabbling Red Squirrels

A close-up of a squirrel perched on a wooden log, with its ears perked up and fur glistening in the sunlight.

As October settles over the Mohawk Valley, two young eastern red squirrels are making plenty of noise in the autumn woods. In this episode of Mohawk Valley Soundscape, we listen in as these feisty youngsters, probably siblings, engage in a lively argument filled with sharp chips, scolding chatters, and rattling calls.

Unlike their larger gray squirrel cousins, red squirrels are fiercely territorial, especially in autumn when they’re busy gathering and storing food for winter. Their noisy disagreements, complete with foot stamping and tail twitching, are usually more about intimidation than actual fighting. It’s a lively reminder that even as the October woods grow quieter, some of their inhabitants still have plenty to say.

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