Lecture – Opening the Vault: A Treasure Trove of Documents

The private collections of Schoharie County Attorney Michael West are a bit of a local legend. Stories abound of the more than 20,000 significant documents, images, memorabilia and other rare, original and one-of-a-kind treasures he has amassed in his treasure trove over the years.

On Thursday, June 20 at 7 p.m. you are invited to get a rare and up-close look of some of the most unique, noteworthy and downright fascinating pieces in his collection during a lecture and program in the Badgley Museum Annex at the Old Stone Fort Museum.

Mr. West’s selections from the collection he has been building for the last 35 years will provide an opportunity to get a rare and exclusive first-hand perspective on some of the most pivotal moments in local, national and world history.

Just a sampling of some of the items you will be able to see, hold and learn about include Timothy Murphy’s Last Will and Testament, letters written by Colonel John Harper during the 1780 Burning of the Valley, letters signed by Revolutionary wartime New York Governor George Clinton and much more.

With items in the collection spanning the 1400s through to the present day, you will be sure to also find a few surprises at this unique and intriguing event!

Admission to the lecture is $5 for adults and free for students and Schoharie County Historical Society members.

Refreshments will be provided.