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MAY

2-3

5th Annual Turning Point & Women in War Symposium

May 2-3, 2026

Presented thanks to the generous support of the Dash Family

At the Old Saratoga American Legion Post Schuylerville, New York

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Immerse yourself in a full day of education and discovery featuring renowned authors and historians sharing insights into one of the most pivotal moments in American history.

Then, join us May 3rd for our popular bus tour with speaker and author, Jim Richmond, following the route of the 1780 Ballston Raid.

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Lauren Roberts, CFS250 Chairperson & Saratoga County Historian and Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner
Lauren Roberts, CFS250 Chairperson & Saratoga County Historian and Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner

Turning Point Symposium Details

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  • Date:

    May 2, 2026

  • Start Time:

    8:15am – approx. 3:30pm

  • Cost:

    $75/person

  • Provisions:

    Continental breakfast, coffee & tea, beverages, snacks, and a buffet deli lunch

  • Location:

    Old Saratoga American Legion Post, Clancy Street, Schuylerville, NY

  • Program:

    Made possible in part by the generosity of Bob Farley – see details below

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What to Expect

  • Engaging presentations from esteemed experts
  • Exhibitor displays, books, and cutting-edge augmented reality demonstrations

Head of Faculty

Dr. Venter
Dr. Bruce M. Venter, Ph.D.
Head of Faculty and Master of Ceremonies. Historian, Author, Saratoga 250 Commissioner

Speakers

Frontier Conflict:

Susan Brewer, the Daughters of the American Revolution Saratoga Chapter presenting speaker along with Tim & Heather Mabee, examines the harrowing “Tribulations of Jane Campbell” during the Cherry Valley Massacre.

The Women’s Perspective:

Anne Clothier provides insight into the experiences of Royalist women following Burgoyne’s campaign.

The Naval Defense:

James L. Nelson, Old Saratoga Historical Association presenting speaker, recounts Benedict Arnold’s heroic leadership of a “rag-tag fleet” during the pivotal Battle of Valcour Island.

The Local Struggle:

James Richmond, Sons of the American Revolution presenting speaker uncovers the founding of communities amidst the “War on the Middleline.”

A Frontier Tragedy:

Paul Staiti, the Friends of the Marshall House presenting speaker, delves into the haunting story of Jane McCrea.

Optional Walking Tour

A FREE Historic Walking Tour, “The Schuyler Legacy” will occur, weather and minimum four confirmed attendees permitting. Approx. 3:45 PM on Saturday immediately following Turning Point Symposium. Join Sean Kelleher, Town Historian & Saratoga 250 Commissioner, for a guided tour of Olde Saratoga starting at the Champlain Canal Region Gateway Visitors Center (30 Ferry St, Schuylerville). 

Sunday’s Bus Tour: “War on the Middleline: The 1780 Raid on Ballston”

  • Date:

    May 3, 2026

  • Start & End Times:

    10 AM – 2 PM

  • Cost:

    $75.00/person

  • Tour Guide:

    Speaker and Author, Jim Richmond

  • Provisions:

    Includes Box Lunch

  • Bus Departure & Return Location:

    Saratoga County Municipal Center (Building 5)

    Address: 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020

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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • River Confluence: View the strategic meeting point of the Hudson and Sacandaga Rivers
  • Sacandaga Shoreline: Scenic transit along South Shore Road with continuous lake views
  • The “Check” Zone: Traverse the steep mountain pass of Lake Desolation Road, just as the raiders did
  • The Middleline Return: Head south through the heart of the historic raid zone before returning to base

Meet Your Guide: James Richmond

The Local Struggle: James Richmond uncovers the founding of communities amidst the “War on the Middleline.” As a noted historian and author, James specializes in bringing the human stories of the Revolution to life. His expertise ensures that as we walk the ground of the 1780 Raid, you aren’t just seeing a landscape—you are seeing the birth of a community through the lens of conflict.

What to Expect: Our journey includes scheduled time off the bus to stretch your legs, access restroom facilities and view key historical sites. Lunch will be enjoyed at a local park pavilion, weather permitting.

Space is Strictly Limited: Due to bus capacity, registration is available on a first-come, first – served basis. Secure your seat early to ensure you don’t miss this unique field experience! NOTE: this is a separately ticketed item, not part of the Turning Point Symposium ticket. 

UPCOMING EVENTS

5th Annual Turning Point & Women in War Symposium

Immerse yourself in a full day of education and discovery featuring renowned authors and historians sharing insights into one of the most pivotal moments in American history at the Turning Point Symposium.

Guided Bus Tour: “War on the Middleline: The 1780 Raid on Ballston”

Join us for our popular bus tour with speaker and author, Jim Richmond, following the route of the 1780 Ballston Raid.

America’s 250th Independence Day with Saratoga 250 at Historic Saratoga Race Course

Celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day in true Saratoga style at the historic Saratoga Racetrack! Join Saratoga 250 on July 4th for a patriotic community gathering that honors our nation’s founding and the region’s pivotal role in American history. Enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with tradition, pride, and celebration at one of Saratoga’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime way to mark this milestone anniversary together.

America’s Turning Point @ the Saratoga County Fair

Combine America’s Turning Point with family fun at the Saratoga County fair with our 18th century era games and live historians.

Turning Point Parade 2026

Come to The Turning Point Parade celebrate America’s victory that changed the world in 1777.

Turning Point Festival 2026

Come to The Turning Point Parade & Festival to celebrate America’s victory that changed the world in 1777.

Stillwater Family Day 2026

September 12th – Stillwater Family Day. Join Saratoga250 at American Legion Post 490 for Revolutionary War trivia and a day of family fun!

Saratoga National Historical Park (SNHP) Freeman’s Farm Anniversary Encampment

Step back in time at the Freeman’s Farm Anniversary Encampment at Saratoga National Historical Park. Experience living history demonstrations, reenactors, and programs that bring the pivotal events of 1777 to life.

DAR Wreath Laying Ceremony at SNHP

Honor Saratoga’s Revolutionary patriots and the heritage of their victory with the local Daughters & Sons of the American Revolution.

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    Keep America’s Turning Point Alive icon-star-red

    Keep America’s Turning Point alive for generations to come by making a tax-deductible donation to the Campaign for Saratoga 250, Inc. Our certified 501c3 nonprofit organization is dedicated to promoting awareness, education, and preservation of critical assets of the Battles of Saratoga. Your support will help promote historical awareness of new generations of people across the region, nation, and globe.

    Learn More