Welcome!

Our museum is open for the season – Sundays 2:00 PM – 4:00PM
Thank You for your continued support!

The museum is located at 1003 River Road, Selkirk.

Become a member of BHA today!  Click here for info.

Donate to BHA today.  Click here for info.

BHA Out And About

Strike While the Iron is Hot: An introduction to Blacksmithing at Pat’s Forge

Saturday May 16th –  10 AM to 12 PM rain or shine

Since Bethlehem’s earliest days, blacksmithing was vital for settlements and commerce. The making of nearly every tool involved a skilled blacksmith. Now is your chance to see how it’s actually done.

Join us at Pat’s Forge in Albany, NY, for an introductory talk and live demonstration that pulls back the curtain on the ancient, necessary, and rewarding world of blacksmithing. This isn’t a dry history lecture — it’s a front-row seat to the transformation of raw iron into something functional and beautiful.

What to Expect:

• The Fundamentals: We’ll start with a brief talk on the “why” and “how” of the craft—understanding heat colors, the anatomy of an anvil, and why blacksmiths aren’t a relic of the past.
• Live Demonstration: Watch the sparks fly as we move metal at 2,000°F. You’ll see essential techniques like drawing, upsetting, and twisting in real-time.
• Q&A: Get your questions answered by people who spend their weekends playing with fire.

Whether you’re a history buff, or just someone who finds the rhythmic ring of an anvil strangely therapeutic, there’s a spot by the forge for you. No experience is required — just a healthy respect for hot metal and a bit of curiosity.

Location: Pat’s Forge, 5 Mill Rd, Albany, NY

Pat’s Forge is on the grounds of the Normanskill Farm Park.  Go on Delaware Ave towards Albany, and Mill Rd is the first right just after the bridge over the Normanskill River

Date & Time: May 16 from 10 AM to 12 noon rain or shine

Invited: Open to BHA members and their families & friends. No registration needed.

Come see why “striking while the iron is hot” is more than just a cliché; it was vital for a sustainable community.

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Annual Meeting

Thursday May 28th, 7PM

Cedar Hill Schoolhouse Museum
1003 River Road, Selkirk

Please join us for our annual meeting where we will tend to business matters and enjoy socializing amongst our officers, trustees, members and volunteers.

During our meeting, we will vote to affirm the Slate of Candidates for Position of Trustee:

Jeanne Biggins – First 3-year term

As soon as Jeanne joined BHA, she got actively involved. She is valued for both her organization and leadership skills. Jeanne co-chairs the annual Spring Tea, is active on the Collection committee and writes for the newsletter.

Tim Beebe – Second 3-year term

We go to our longtime member, Tim, with questions about local history or whenever photography skills are needed. In addition to serving as a Trustee, he is a member of the Exhibit committee and the Oral History team.

Linda Schacht – First 3-year term (following 1 year appointment)

As a longtime member of the Collection Committee, Linda’s knowledge of clothing history is greatly valued.  She has been managing the annual Bake Sale for many years and co-chairs the Spring Tea.

At the annual meeting, we will also be voting on proposed edits to our Bylaws.  You can review the proposed changes here

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Membership Renewal 2026-2027

Renew online with Zeffy!
Scan the QR Code below to renew online or Click Here:

Renew your 2026-27 membership today!

$20 Individual
$30 Family

Above and beyond donations always appreciated!

Please Note:  When paying, Zeffy will suggest a Donation for their Services. You can click “other” and change this to $0 or any comfortable amount. We do encourage a donation to Zeffy since Zeffy does not charge us fees and we pay NO costs for their service.