submitted by Brian Bushner
Hoosick Falls Central School students had a busy day, full of hands-on history, with three grades participating in field trips to learn about local history.
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Students in fourth grade, seventh grade, and eleventh grade all participated in programs at the Bennington Battlefield Historic Site, where an archeological dig is being conducted. Several of the archeologists took time from their work to teach the students about how they are searching for artifacts from the Battle of Bennington, and what those artifacts tell us about the battle.
David Pitlyk, Historic Site Assistant for Bennington Battlefield State Historic Site in Walloomsac, shared the history of the battle, including the circumstances that led to the battle, as well as the impact the conflict had on the Battle of Saratoga. He also shared maps and other literature with the students.
Peter Schaaphok, a Battle of Bennington reenactor, dressed in period clothing, explained to the students about the provisions a soldier would have carried during the battle. He also demonstrated how a period musket worked, and shot a blank for the students.
Seventh grade students also traveled to the Louis Miller Museum in the Village of Hoosick Falls. The museum is operated by the Hoosick Township Historical Society, and has displays featuring vintage clothing, Grandma Moses, Walter A. Wood, famous people from Hoosick, and more.
The museum also has a “war room” commemorating the sacrifices and contributions Hoosick residents have made to every conflict from the Revolutionary War through the most recent conflicts in the Middle East.
Hoosick Town Historian Phil Leonard personally gave tours to the students, as did several other volunteers from the Louis Miller Museum.
“One of the best ways to introduce kids to history is to connect them to it in person”, said Jr.- Sr. principal Stacy Vadney. “The Hoosick area has a wealth of history and resources, right here in our backyard.” Vadney sees this is as a strength.“Due to the proximity, students are interested in what has happened in the area they live in.”
Elementary School Principal Amy Netti explained, “Textbooks frequently omit local history, so for our students to be able to experience those connections in person is very powerful.” She added, “Our teachers utilize many multi-media tools for digital storytelling, but hands-on opportunities such as this truly inspire learning.”
Vadney added, “We start the discussion in our classrooms, then we take our students to the field to see what they just learned about. After the trip we have a follow-up discussion to help solidify what they’ve just experienced.”
Patrick Dailey, Director of Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment, who joined the students at the Bennington Battlefield site was happy with how the day turned out.
“We strive to give our students the most well-rounded education possible and our local history plays such an important role in the history of the United States.” He added, “The more our students know about their community, the more they will appreciate being a part of it.”
Mr. Dailey also noted the significance of HFCSD students learning about career paths they may not have thought of.
“Many of the students were excited about the archeologists and historians line of work. The students were introduced to jobs and professions they did not know existed. It is important to expose students in the elementary, junior high and senior high to as many career opportunities as possible.”
Overall the students had a positive day, and many expressed a desire to explore and research more aspects of our local history.[/private]