9/2 WWII V-J Day Event by Hank Yost

On August 15, 1945, the world celebrated Victory over Japan Day, or VJ Day, marking the end of World War II in the Pacific. Join us in commemorating this historic event with a living history display featuring World War II reenactors. Experience an immersive journey back in time and gain insight into the troops, tactics, and weapons used during the Pacific campaign. The reenactors will also shed light on what was happening on the home front and the changes in US society during this period.

9/23 Society for Creative Anachronism Medieval Reenactors

The Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) is an educational organization that is dedicated to researching and recreating the arts, crafts, and pastimes of the Middle Ages. Join the members of the SCA's Shire of Nordenhal for an immersive experience where you can learn about various aspects of medieval life. Witness demonstrations and discussions on period clothing, calligraphy, armored combat, fencing, archery, dancing, and other countless activities of interest.

9/7 Wiltwyck Quilters Guild Demo at Persen House

Ulster County Clerk’s Office Announces Wiltwyck Quilters Guild at the Matthewis Persen House Museum

 

Kingston, NY – Acting Ulster County Clerk Taylor Bruck is pleased to announce that on Saturday, September 7th the Wiltwyck Quilters Guild will present a craft demonstration and display at the Matthewis Persen House located at 74 John Street in uptown Kingston, at the corner of John and Crown Streets. The house will be open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is free and all are welcome. 

9/9 Don Terpening, Revolutionary War Medical Reenactor

Join us for a fascinating presentation by Professor Emeritus of Biology, Don Terpening, as he takes us back in time to the Revolutionary War era to explore the fascinating world of medicine during this period. In his presentation, Professor Terpening will share his extensive knowledge of the medicines, implements, and techniques used by physicians during the war, providing a glimpse into the medical practices of the time. He will also delve into the role that doctors played during this period, and the social standing they held in society.

About the House

The Persen House, owned by Ulster County since 1914, has undergone extensive restoration since emergency repairs in 1999 revealed its historical significance. Preservation Architect Kenneth Barricklo's Historic Structure Report reveals that the house was built in five distinct phases from 1661 to 1922. The house has witnessed the entire documented history of Kingston and even pre-dates the formation of Ulster County.

August Events at Persen House

Matthewis Persen House Museum Announces August Guest Hosts
Ulster County Landmark Welcomes Reenactors, Historians, and Cultural Partners

 

KINGSTON, NY — The Ulster County Clerk’s Office is pleased to continue its 2025 season at the Matthewis Persen House Museum with another month of engaging guest hosts throughout August. Located at the historic corner of Crown and John Streets in uptown Kingston, the Persen House remains a center for local history, culture, and community engagement.

Burning of Kingston: Involvement Over the Years

The Burning of Kingston is a fun, bi-annual commemoration that draws thousands of visitors to Kingston for a weekend-long event. During the weekend actual historical events from the American Revolutionary War are re-enacted at different locations throughout Kingston. 

The Matthewis Persen House Museum is pleased and honored to play a role in this event.  The House is host to the first re-enactment of the weekend, the Committee of Safety, as well as being the site of a major battle between the British and the colonial militia on Saturday afternoon.

Education

The Persen House gives educators the opportunity to merge a lesson with an in-person experience for students.  From elementary to college, there is learning potential for all ages.  We offer curriculum guides, activity packets, house tours, student exhibits and colonial era demonstrations.  The Persen House is a valuable resource for history, culture, art and more!

Plan a visit or Contact Us for more information.

Field Trips and Tours

Each year the Persen House welcomes hundreds of students from local schools, community organizations, college classes and more. We’ve had students from elementary, intermediate, junior-high, college, continuing education, and homeschool classes, as well as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and other groups. Educators have used the Persen House as a part of their local history, cultural heritage, community engagement and art lessons. Tours can be tailored to your group's interests or curriculum.

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