This picturesque mountaintop has hosted thousands of residents and visitors over the last 150 years, from U.S. presidents to TB patients, veteran and prisoners. Join Grant Cottage Historic Site Operations Manager Ben Kemp as he shares the mountain’s compelling and storied history, including tales of tragedy, mystery, romance, and heroism.

(This walk will be less than a mile but over varied terrain with some inclines.)

$5.00 Suggested Donation Only

*Not Required

Join Grant Cottage volunteer and antique photography collector Randall Gamby as he shares the evolution of 19th-century photography and its profound influence on the understanding of history. The presentation will feature key examples of 19th-century photographic history, including a revealing image of Grant Cottage in 1885.  

Gamby is an avid collector of interesting historical artifacts, especially of 19th-century Niagara Falls, and has had items from his collection featured in National Park exhibits and multiple publications.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2025 SPONSORS

Edward A. Burke & The Glens Falls Senior Center

Join us for a walk through the fall foliage!

Enjoy a staff-guided tour of the historic site grounds, where different tree species will be identified and discussed amid the beautiful colors of fall. Over 20 species of trees will be identified, and participants are encouraged to fill out the tree ID scavenger hunt forms for a free souvenir.

Along your stroll you’ll learn about the different species of trees that call the ecosystem of Mt. McGregor home and interesting facts about the rich history of the site grounds.

Note: This walk requires walking over uneven and some steep sections of natural surface terrain. Severe weather will cancel.

While RSVPing is not required, they do help us provide the best experience possible.

A history-driven family adventure for all ages presented by author Kurt Deion

Author Kurt Deion will discuss his book "Presidential Grave Hunter" about visiting president-related sites as a child and young adult. Fascinated by the U.S. presidents since age seven, Deion embarked on a mission to visit each chief executive’s burial site. Both his grave quest and his love of history expanded over time.

As part of our Literary Landmark Author Series Kurt will be signing copies of his book Presidential Grave Hunter: One Kid’s Quest to Visit the Tombs of Every President and Vice President following the presentation.

All Grant Cottage Programs are FREE and open to the public.

Special Thanks to our Sponsors

Come ease your body and mind by joining yoga instructor Linda, as she guides you through a relaxing yoga session surrounded by the natural beauty and fresh mountain air of Mt. McGregor. Visitors have travelled to Mt. McGregor for health reason throughout history. Known for it’s fresh mountain air, beautiful views, flora, fauna, and more. Experience yoga like you never have before. Find peace and serenity through movement on the top of Mt. McGregor.

Come enjoy the unique experience during Wellness Wednesday on October 1st. After, be sure to stop by the visitor center to top off the time capsule experience with a tour.

RSVP below:

RSVPing is NOT REQUIRED but it helps us give guests the best experience. Thank you!

Lisa began her yoga journey when one day scrolling the internet. She saw something that caught her eye, Buti Yoga. The video seemed more like dancing and free sequencing of poses mixed in with pounding on the mat to some tribal beats. The meaning of Buti, healing from within led her to her first class at a certification to teach. The energy in the room along side free movement to fun music and the moments of truly stepping out of the mind had her knowing that this was it. This was something she would learn and then spread to others. Fast forward eight years later, she is certified in Buti Movement and Aerial Yoga, teaching 5 times a week. 

Come join her on the mat for a fun, free flow class that will help you step out of your mind through movement. On top of the mountain yoga we will,  as they say free your mind, find your soul.

Join Grant Cottage volunteer and antique photography collector Randall Gamby as he shares the evolution of 19th-century photography and its profound influence on the understanding of history. The presentation will feature key examples of 19th-century photographic history, including a revealing image of Grant Cottage in 1885.  

Gamby is an avid collector of interesting historical artifacts, especially of 19th-century Niagara Falls, and has had items from his collection featured in National Park exhibits and multiple publications.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2025 SPONSORS

Edward A. Burke & The Glens Falls Senior Center

Come ease your body and mind by joining yoga instructor Linda, as she guides you through a relaxing yoga session surrounded by the natural beauty and fresh mountain air of Mt. McGregor. Visitors have travelled to Mt. McGregor for health reason throughout history. Known for it’s fresh mountain air, beautiful views, flora, fauna, and more. Experience yoga like you never have before. Find peace and serenity through movement on the top of Mt. McGregor.

Come enjoy the unique experience during Wellness Wednesday on September 10th at 9:30am. After, be sure to stop by the visitor center to top off the time capsule experience with a tour.

RSVP below:

RSVPing is NOT REQUIRED but it helps us give guests the best experience. Thank you!

Lisa began her yoga journey when one day scrolling the internet. She saw something that caught her eye, Buti Yoga. The video seemed more like dancing and free sequencing of poses mixed in with pounding on the mat to some tribal beats. The meaning of Buti, healing from within led her to her first class at a certification to teach. The energy in the room along side free movement to fun music and the moments of truly stepping out of the mind had her knowing that this was it. This was something she would learn and then spread to others. Fast forward eight years later, she is certified in Buti Movement and Aerial Yoga, teaching 5 times a week. 

Come join her on the mat for a fun, free flow class that will help you step out of your mind through movement. On top of the mountain yoga we will,  as they say free your mind, find your soul.

Don’t miss the 2nd annual Ulysses S. Grant Cottage Race at the Saratoga Race Course!

The 2nd annual Ulysses S. Grant Cottage Race is officially set for Sunday, August 24th, the Sunday after Travers Day, in conjunction with the New York Racing Association (NYRA).

Make sure to stop by the Community Booth to say hello, try your hand at Guess the Artifact or a Raffle, pick up your Buy One Get One Free Cottage Tour ticket, and more.

- RACE # TBA -

Read our blog post Off To The Races... Or Not?, about Grant, his love of horses, and Saratoga Springs.

Celebrating 140 years of ‘Forever Wild’ (1885-2025)

Join us for a celebration of the Adirondack wilderness and what it has meant to the wellness and livelihood of generations of residents and visitors. Embark on a musical guided tour through the high peaks and back roads of Adirondack folklife, exploring the stories and songs of lumberjacks, farmers, poets and people just trying to get by.

Come to Mt. McGregor in the foothills of the Adirondacks to find out why U.S. Grant and many others came to the area to restore their health and how the forest continues to provide opportunities for wellness today. Attendees are encouraged to explore the opportunities available for outdoor recreation through the New York State Parks ‘Wellness Challenge’.

Enjoy a musical journey amidst the outdoor scenery of Mt. McGregor on the eve of Ulysses and Julia Grant’s 177th wedding anniversary. Bring your folding chairs and picnics to maximize your relaxation/Folding chairs and picnics welcome.

2nd Annual Historic Mt. McGregor Open

Tournament starts at 11:00AM

Calling all competitive cornhole players and fans!! Help us raise funds to build a pavilion in the new historic site property (former prison ballfield). The event is free and open to the public for spectators. Tournament participants can use the link below to register. Bring your pop-up canopies, lawn chairs, and picnics, and have some fun enjoying the breathtaking views while cheering on the competitors. Unique trophies will be awarded to the winning competitors.

Guided tours of the historic Cottage will be available every 30 minutes from 10:00AM-3:30PM.

2024 Cornhole Tournament highlights:

Come ease your body and mind by joining yoga instructor Linda, as she guides you through a relaxing yoga session surrounded by the natural beauty and fresh mountain air of Mt. McGregor. Visitors have travelled to Mt. McGregor for health reason throughout history. Known for it’s fresh mountain air, beautiful views, flora, fauna, and more. Experience yoga like you never have before. Find peace and serenity through movement on the top of Mt. McGregor.

Come enjoy the unique experience during Wellness Wednesday on August 6th at 10 am. After, be sure to stop by the visitor center to top off the time capsule experience with a tour.

RSVP below:

RSVPing is not required but it helps us give guests the best experience. Thank you!

Lisa began her yoga journey when one day scrolling the internet. She saw something that caught her eye, Buti Yoga. The video seemed more like dancing and free sequencing of poses mixed in with pounding on the mat to some tribal beats. The meaning of Buti, healing from within led her to her first class at a certification to teach. The energy in the room along side free movement to fun music and the moments of truly stepping out of the mind had her knowing that this was it. This was something she would learn and then spread to others. Fast forward eight years later, she is certified in Buti Movement and Aerial Yoga, teaching 5 times a week. 

Come join her on the mat for a fun, free flow class that will help you step out of your mind through movement. On top of the mountain yoga we will,  as they say free your mind, find your soul.

A day of Living History experiences awaits!

Featuring Dr. Curt Fields as General and President Ulysses S. Grant

Remembrance Day Schedule:

10:00AM-12:00PM: Meet & Greet with General Grant and learn about the life of a Civil War Soldier and 19th-century tintype photography.

1:00PM-2:00PM: "Ulysses S. Grant Reflects" Living History program by Curt Fields (see description below)

2:00PM: Memorial Flag Ceremony at Grant Cottage flagpole with the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War.

2:30PM-3:30PM: Meet & Greet with President Grant and learn about the life of a Civil War Soldier and 19th-century tintype photography.

All day: Tintype portraits by Glens Falls Art, reenactors, and special exhibits. Guided Grant Cottage Tours every 30mins (visitors must register for tours at the Visitor Center).

“Ulysses S. Grant Reflects”

Join Ulysses S. Grant (portrayed by Dr. Curt Fields) as he looks back on his incredible life and career during his last days on Mt. McGregor. Find out how the support of fellow veterans, a grateful nation, and his loving family made a difference as he raced death to finish his Memoirs for the sake of his family. As part of our Literary Landmark Author Series Dr. Fields will be signing copies of Grant at 200: Reconsidering the Life and Legacy of Ulysses S. Grant and his recently published book Unconditional Surrender: Ulysses S. Grant in the Civil War.

- Registration IS required at brooksidemuseum.org/event/mount-mcgregor-walking-tour/ -

This picturesque mountaintop has hosted thousands of residents and visitors over the last 150 years, from U.S. presidents to TB patients, veteran and prisoners. Join Grant Cottage Historic Site Operations Manager Ben Kemp as he shares the mountain’s compelling and storied history, including tales of tragedy, mystery, romance, and heroism.

This walk will be less than a mile but over varied terrain with some inclines. Drive up Mt McGregor road from Rt 9 in Wilton. Parking is available at Grant’s Cottage.

Donations appreciated. The tour is limited to 30 people.

A Juneteenth presentation by author Field Horne celebrating Saratoga’s black history.

In celebration of Juneteenth, join author and historian Field Horne of the Saratoga County History Center as he explores the stories and impact of blacks in the Saratoga area of New York over the past 300 years. From the colonial wilderness to the lavish hotels of Gilded Age Saratoga Springs, discover well-known to mostly forgotten or previously-unknown individuals that helped shape the region. As part of our Literary Landmark Author Series a book signing of complimentary copies of Saratoga’s Black Heritage: A Guidebook will follow the presentation.

A Memorial Day Living History presentation by Steve Trimm

    Civil War Union soldier Rice C. Bull of the 123rd New York Volunteer Infantry was so severely wounded during fighting at Chancellorsville, Virginia that he was left on the battlefield to die. Unable to move a muscle or swallow food, barely able to drink water, helpless to help himself, against all odds, he survived. Many years later, R.C. wrote about hovering for nine days near death and the unsung “Saints of Chancellorsville” Union and Confederate-who saved him.

Grant Cottage tour guide Steve Trimm will portray Rice C. Bull to share his harrowing, but ultimately inspiring tale. As part of our Literary Landmark Author Series, Trimm will be signing copies of his books Saving Grant Cottage and General Grant's Supporting Players following the presentation. A limited quantity of the book Soldiering: The Civil War diary of Rice C. Bull, 123rd New York Volunteer Infantry will also be available.

One thing is certain, the famed Civil War General and two-term U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant had an incredible relationship with horses during his life. From breaking unruly horses as a young child to brave equestrian feats as a soldier, to driving fast trotters in the streets of Washington DC and raising prized horses on his St. Louis farm, Grant had a powerful connection to the animals. Travel back in time to join President Grant (portrayed by Grant Cottage staff member Ben Kemp) as he shares stories of his horses that illustrate how much they influenced his life and the history of the nation. A magic lantern slideshow of Grant's horses will add depth to the presentation. 

THIS PROGRAM IS FREE TO THE PUBLIC AND DOES NOT REQUIRE REGISTRATION.

Join us to celebrate the U.N.’s International Day of Peace by learning about the relationship between people and the gardens of Earth, seed preservation, Native diets and meals, natural pest control, and the importance of the Circle of Life.

Our presenter is storyteller and author Joseph (Joe) Bruchac of Greenfield Center, N.Y. The program is based on his book, Native American Gardening. The book was co-authored with Michael J. Caduto and shares stories, projects, and recipes for families. Joe’s poems, articles, and stories have appeared in over 500 publications, and he is the author of more than 170 books for adults and children. Much of his writing is drawn from his connection to the Adirondack Mountain foothills town where he grew up and his Abenaki ancestry.

This is the second program in our 2024 Grant Cottage Literary Landmark Author Series. A book signing will follow the program.

Musician Dan Berggren will be playing Civil War Era music at Grant Cottage, on Mt. McGregor. Dan Berggren’s roots are firmly in the Adirondacks where he was raised but his music has branched out across many borders. The award-winning musician and educator grew up on the land farmed by his mother's family for generations and has worked in the woods with forest rangers and survey crews. Hearing stories and songs from local friends and neighbors, Dan has developed a style that captures the spirit of the mountains.

 Come for a day of fun and friendly competition on the mountain.

There will be various games and activities available for all ages to enjoy throughout the day. From croquet to sack races, have some fun while learning some history about your favorite games and trying some you’ve never tried before.  The Summer Olympics may be coming to a close, but Grant Cottage Historic Site will be keeping the spirit of healthy competition going.

For those looking for a bit more serious competition you can register to PLAY in our Mt. McGregor Open cornhole tournament fundraiser. Compete for the first ever championship while helping to raise funds to improve the historic site. Register here ($20 registration): https://share.scoreholio.com/8OWADZpOkLb

Date: Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, 10:00AM-4:00PM

Location: 1000 Mt. McGregor Road, Gansevoort, NY 12831

Carol Godette will discuss Victorian-era mourning and funeral customs; how William Burke’s involvement in the embalming of President Ulysses S Grant led him to open his own funeral home; and the rich history of Burke’s role as one of four operating funeral homes in Saratoga Springs.

In honor of Remembrance Day (Tues. 7/23) Grant’s great-great grandson Ulysses Dietz will take us on a journey through time to gain insight into Ulysses and Julia’s great love, and life on the cusp of a pivotal era of change in America’s history.

Due to the heat advisory, this program will be held inside the air-conditioned Visitor Center.

Author Carol Daggs presents her book Saratoga Soul Brandtville Blues, a visual narrative on the Daggs Family story in the upstate Saratoga Springs, New York neighborhood of Brandtville. Along with the delightful collection of historic photographs, Daggs’ decidedly abecedarian approach recounts an African-American family experience through telling a narrative. This is the first program in our 2024 Grant Cottage Literary Landmark Author Series.

Programming & Events Tent Schedule

10:30 - Music by Adirondack Song Dogs

11:30 - Juggle This Juggling Performance

12:30 - Tea Dueling Competition

1:30 - Silent Wings Raptor Show

2:30 - Juggle This Juggling Performance

Join Us to Celebrate NYS Parks' 100th Birthday!

- This is a FREE event -

• Civil War Reenactors

• Cannon Firing by 2nd Continental Artillery

• FREE Grant Cottage open house / walk-through every 10 minutes

• FREE Juggle This juggling show

• FREE Pony Rides by Dreamcatcher Farm

• FREE Face Painting

• FREE Petting Zoo

• Raptor Show by Silent Wings Raptor

• Twisty Balloon Fun Balloon Artist

• FREE Music by Adirondack Song Dogs

• Kaleidoscope Café & Time Square Catering Food Trucks

• Bubble Artist Phil Dixon

• FREE Cake

• Mr. Ding-A-Ling Ice Cream Truck from 11am-3pm (FREE bomb pop junior to the first 100 kids)

• FREE Kids & Adult Games

• FREE Scavenger Hunt

• FREE entertainment under the Programming & Events Tent

• Guests are also invited to wear their own historical costuming!

Lt. Col. Clarence W. Dart, famous Saratoga Springs member of the Tuskegee Airmen and decorated WWII fighter pilot was shot down twice in his 95 missions, earning two Purple Hearts. This program is presented by his son Warren Dart.

This program will be held at the Saratoga State Park offices, Saratoga admin building, in the Gideon Putnam Room. 19 Roosevelt Drive, Saratoga Springs NY 12866

Join us for The Friends of Grant Cottage Annual Meeting, followed by our first program of 2024. Learn about the many accomplishments The Friends have achieved over this past year and the exciting new endeavors in store for 2024, while enjoying music by Tom Smith.

Saratoga County Poorhouse

Saratoga County Historian Lauren Roberts presents on the Saratoga County Poorhouse, established in 1827, when the county purchased land to accommodate an Alms House for ‘the victims of misfortune’. The Poor House complex included a large-scale farm, schoolhouse, imposing brick residence, and an infirmary. In 1961, the poorhouse was demolished. Though the building no longer exists, this institution played a significant role in the care of county residents for well over a century.

An official business meeting for Members only will follow.

In 1861, at the start of the Civil War, Samuel Clemens (the future Mark Twain) was a member of a Confederate militia group called the Marion Rangers, and Colonel U.S. Grant (the future General Grant) was commanding a Union force pursuing the Rangers.

In spite of this history, Mark Twain would one day become the publisher of Grant’s Memoirs. However, the relationship between the two men was more than that of publisher and author. By the last years of U.S. Grant’s life, they had become close friends.

Author and Grant Cottage tour guide Steve Trimm will share the inspiring story of this unlikely friendship.