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MAY

3

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

10 AM – 2 PM

We invite you to join us for a deep-dive exploration of the 1780 Ballston Raid with historian and author, Jim Richmond, tracing the actual route of the conflict through the historic Kayaderosseras Patent.

This tour offers an unparalleled perspective on our region’s revolutionary past and the specific communities caught in the crossfire of the war.

Space is Strictly Limited


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Sunday Bus Tour Details & Logistics

  • Date

    Sunday, May 3, 2026

  • Time

    Check-in at 9:45AM; Departure at 10:00AM (sharp)

  • Return

    Approximately 2:00PM

  • Included

    Deli Box Lunch, bottled water

  • Lunch Break

    by Saratoga, America’s Turning Point


Meeting & Departure

  • Location

    Saratoga County Municipal Center (Building 5)

  • Address

    50 West High Street, Ballston Spa NY 12020

  • Parking

    This building is located directly across the street from the main Saratoga County Municipal Campus.


Route 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 breaks 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!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Saratoga 250 presents a public screening of Henry Knox: Resolve Forged by Revolution, a short film bringing to life one of the American Revolution’s most remarkable achievements.
Step back in time and explore the fashion of the 18th century at “Sign of the Golden Scissors Workshop – Women’s Attire” a special public program and hands-on workshop led by Emily Stringham of At the Sign of the Golden Scissors.
Volunteers will assist with winter debris pickup, landscape preparation, and cleaning interpretive signage for the busy visitor season.
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.
Join us for our popular bus tour with speaker and author, Jim Richmond, following the route of the 1780 Ballston Raid.
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.
Combine America’s Turning Point with family fun at the Saratoga County fair with our 18th century era games and live historians.
Come to The Turning Point Parade celebrate America’s victory that changed the world in 1777.
Come to The Turning Point Parade & Festival to celebrate America’s victory that changed the world in 1777.
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.

    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.