The Caroga Historical Association and Museum is a non-profit organization made up of
volunteers committed to preserving and sharing our local history. We owe a debt of
gratitude to Barbara McMartin, whose research on the Caroga area was instrumental in
creating the association in 1977. She is the author of Caroga: An Adirondack Town Recalls its Past, the town’s first
comprehensive history (with full text found here). We have always been a board of
volunteers from the community. Our ability to sustain the museum facilities and offer
special exhibits and programs depends on donations from the public, and other funds
obtained through grants. While the museum is free to all, we hope you consider either
making a donation when you visit or joining as a member (see membership page).
The museum moved to its present site, the Arnst family homestead, in 1981. The
“homestead”, previously a tanner’s home, was moved from its original site near the
former Wheelerville tannery and reassembled at its present site on London Bridge
Road. The 12-acre property had been kept and occupied by the Arnst family members
through four generations. Today, the museum has grown into a complex of eight exhibit
buildings, including the homestead, that represent work and family life from the late 19th
through the mid-20th century (see exhibits page)..
The Caroga Historical Museum is open from 1-4 pm, Thursdays through Sundays. Our
season runs from the last week in June through the last week in August, though specific
opening and closing dates vary by year. Almost everything on display has been
donated, and is maintained by community volunteers.
We work hard to make the museum a gathering place for the community. Each year the
museum mounts two special exhibits that speak to the area’s history, particularly its
reputation as a summer haven for artists. We hold an annual artisan and vendor fair
with food and run a series of one day workshops that give participants a chance to
explore their own creative skills. Finally, special events–concerts, guest speakers and
our exhibit openings in July and August—always attract large audiences.
We welcome volunteers to help with exhibits and events, so please contact us if you’d
like to get more involved in the museum’s activities.
Mission Statement:
The Caroga Historical Museum is operated by the Caroga Historical Association. The Museum is dedicated to the collection, preservation and interpretation of historical objects and artifact pertinent to the Township of Caroga and to conveying their significant to the public with tours, exhibits, program and research. The complex combines the charm of Caroga farm and home life with the historical aspects of Adirondack industry and recreation in the 19th century.