A Hudson Valley Reckoning: Online Book and Family History Discussion

Join the ACHA for an engaging online two-session book discussion on an important topic for family and regional history:

On March 19 at 2 pm, join us for a free online book discussion of author Debra Bruno's A Hudson Valley Reckoning: Discovering the Forgotten History of Slaveholding in My Dutch American Family (Cornell University Press). The program features a special visit from the author herself. This book delves into the untold stories of the Hudson Valley, and the connections between genealogy, family history, and discovering the untold stories of enslavement in New York's long and complex history. The following week, on March 26 at 2 pm, we will continue our conversation, diving deeper into our own research and reflections on family or community history, and learn about the ACHA's work on Documenting Untold Stories. Our work together is crucial in uncovering, preserving, and understanding the rich and complex history of Hudson Valley. Program is open to all with an interest in Hudson Valley history, family history, and genealogy.

Topics for March 19:

• Discussion of A Hudson Valley Reckoning
• Exploring untold stories of the Hudson Valley
• Featuring a special visit from author Debra Bruno

Topics for March 26:

• Continued discussion of the book's impact
• Participants' own research and reflections
• Examining our family or community histories

Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and share your thoughts with fellow history enthusiasts. Register today and be part of this meaningful experience!

We look forward to creating a respectful and thoughtful discussion together. For ages 16 and up. By registering, participants agree to:

Read the book: Participants should read A Hudson Valley Reckoning:Discovering the Forgotten History of Slaveholding in My Dutch American Family by Debra Bruno before our discussions. Copies may be ordered from the ACHA Museum Shop by calling 518-436-9826 (a portion of all proceeds helps support the ACHA). You can also purchase it from a local bookseller (copies are sold at The Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza in Albany and Northshire Bookstore in Saratoga Springs) or purchase an e-book from Amazon. You can also borrow it from your local library, but this may come with a waitlist.

Come prepared: Bring your insights, questions, and reflections to share with the group.

Respectful discussion: Engage in thoughtful and respectful conversations, listening to others' perspectives and experiences, and allowing time for others to share. Respect the moderator's requests and suggestions for participation.

Be punctual: Join the Zoom meetings on time to ensure smooth and uninterrupted discussions. Please check to see if your version of Zoom is current before the meeting starts.

Participate actively: Contribute to the discussion, but allow space for everyone to share their thoughts and ideas.

Reflect on personal history: Discuss and reflect on your own family or community history, as you feel comfortable, during the March 26 meeting. Let's work together to create an atmosphere to promote learning,.

Images: book cover, A Hudson Valley Reckoning, author Debra Bruno, courtesy Cornell University Press. Header and below: Family records from Gerrit Grosebeck's Bible [detail], ACHA Collections; Family Tree of Eleanor Slingerland from Van Allen Register, ACHA Collections; Family record of Gerret Van Allen from Van Allen Register, ACHA Collections; Author photo, courtesy of Debra Bruno.

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