Grant Cottage Opening Weekend - 05/27/2011

Grant Cottage Opening Weekend.

GRANT COTTAGE KICKS OFF ITS FIRST SEASON OF THE CIVIL WAR SESQUICENTENNIAL (WILTON, NY) Now that the 150th anniversary of the Civil War is officially upon us (April 12 marked the first shot at Fort Sumter), Americans are encountering themes of the conflict significantly more than usual. The sesquicentennial will put numerous regional Civil War-related places and events in the spotlight over the next four years. When most New Yorkers consider historical places relevant to the Civil War, their focus tends towards Gettysburg and all points south. Meanwhile, just off Northway exit 16 lies what was recently included among the list of "Best-Kept Secrets in the Capital Region" in the spring 2011 Metroland Readers' Poll. The Ulysses S. Grant Cottage, located on Mt. McGregor near Wilton, NY is the dwelling where the celebrated general (and our nation's 18th president) spent his final days. Its remarkable authenticity including the rugs upon which he walked and the bed in which he died, draws visitors from throughout the world. Guests may stand upon the porch where he completed his memoirs (sometimes with Mark Twain at his side), or may stroll along the path to the edge of Mt. McGregor to experience the same vista that Grant reveled at in 1885. On May 28th and 29th, the cottage's doors will open to the public for the first time this season. Informative tour guides will lead guests through rooms and among the furniture Grant used during his last days. The visitor’s center will be open, offering interpretive displays as well as books and souvenirs from the gift shop. On Sunday at 2pm, living historian Steve Trimm will portray Oliver Clarke, Civil War POW and veteran who was the first cottage caretaker. At 3pm, visitors may enjoy cake served on the porch. For those who already have Memorial Day weekend plans, there are numerous other opportunities to visit the Cottage this season. Please check the website (www.grantcottage.org) for the latest additions: * July 23, 2pm: "Remembrance Day". The anniversary of Grant's death including a program by living historian Steve Trimm and the 77th NY Balladeers. * August 6, 2pm: "Flags at Half Mast". Remarks by Steve Timm and music by bagpiper Jerry Cashion and cellist Katherine Hackert. * August 13 and 14, 10am-4pm: "Young Historians". An opportunity to read Civil War diary entries and letters with the assistance of our youngest tour guides. * October 9, 10am-3pm: "Family Fall Festival". The Grant Cottage is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day Wednesday–Sunday, 10am to 4pm and from Labor Day through Columbus Day, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 4pm. Adults, $5; Seniors (62 & up) $4; All students (ages 6-18) $4; 6 & Under: Free. Group rate available for groups of 10 or more: $3.00. For more information, call 518-584-4353 or visit www.grantcottage.org. # # #