Art and crafts can mean many things to many people, but with the intervention of time, these elements of culture become the vital tools of historians. The Washington County Historical Society is one such organization that links the significance of art and crafts to a human past sustained by tintypes, photographs, drawn maps, prints, books and the craftworks of the day.  Located in Fort Edward, the Society has made its home in the historical Wing-Northrup house built c.1814 by former Washington County entrepreneur, Daniel Wood Wing. It serves as a non-profit center for research for historian buffs from across the country eager to absorb the rich history of the local area.

At the heart of the Society is the Heritage Research Library that aims to collect and preserve materials of historical importance for public information and handles up to 20 inquiries a day from as far away as California.  The Society promotes the use of historical information through Washington County archives and local historians. By viewing their website www.wchs-ny.org, visitors take the first step in researching local interests, such as those that concern genealogy.

For the Society, the “most celebrated and sought after” local artist that has contributed to American history is Grandma Moses and the Society’s collection of Grandma Moses prints, books, china, and one of her quilts. Executive Assistant, Peter Nettleton, notes her “instinctive ability to capture rural Washington County.”

In addition to a research center, the Society has an online shop of historical books, prints, and gift items, such as Forrest Moses and Will Moses cards.  www.wchs-ny.org/booksncollect.html