NEWSLETTER
Scheduled for Saturday, July 13, 2024
Utica, N.Y. - Oneida County History Center will host an open house at the Proctor Memorial Building. This historical landmark located in downtown Utica at Bagg Commemorative Park will be open for tours on July 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Visitors will explore the rich history of the building that was once the site of many important events in the city.
The Proctor Memorial Building was built by Maria Proctor in 1933 in memory of her husband Thomas Redfield Proctor. It sits on the site of Bagg's Hotel, which was operated by Mr. Proctor. It was given to the City of Utica by Mrs. Proctor and used as a military police headquarters, a clinic, the Visitors and Convention Bureau headquarters, and even as a small museum run by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Today, it is a testament to the city's history and an important part of Utica's cultural heritage.
"We are excited to open the Proctor Memorial Building to the public for tours," said Rebecca Mclain, Executive Director of the History Center. “Bagg’s Hotel was one of upstate New York’s finest hotels, and its history is intertwined with the growth of the city. Seeing this beautiful and important landmark up close is a wonderful opportunity to learn about this seldom-seen piece of Utica's history." Visitors will hear about the building's history, the vital role of Bagg Square in the city's past, and the area's economic rebirth in recent years. The open house is suitable for all ages.
Out-of-town visitors interested in local history are encouraged to visit the History Center on Friday, July 25th from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The museum features changing exhibits and a bookstore. Current exhibits include the Underground Railroad, Utica Shoes, and National News in Color: The Saturday Globe newspaper. Visitors are also invited to stop by the History Center table at the Oneida County Public Market from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 13.
###
Photo Caption: Early View of the Proctor Memorial Building c. 1935
ABOUT:
Oneida County History Center is a private 501(c) (3) not-for-profit educational institution dedicated to preserving the history, heritage, and culture of the Greater Mohawk Valley for present and future generations. Admission to this program is free for the general public; donations are encouraged. Please contact the History Center at 315-735-3642 or visit the oneidacountyhistory.org for additional information.