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Museum proposed for Warren County namesake

The site of the proposed Joseph Warren Museum

Without Joseph Warren’s contributions to American history, there would be no Warren County. Warren County Historical Society wants to share Warren’s story with residents and visitors alike by creating a museum that would sit on Warren County property in Queensbury.

Representatives of Warren County Historical Society are proposing transforming a vacant home owned by Warren County next to Historical Society Headquarters on Gurney Lane into a visitors center and museum using memorabilia from Warren’s life.

Lake George native Shane Newell, author of a book on Warren’s role in the creation of America’s democracy in the 1700s, would lead the effort, using his collection of Joseph Warren memorabilia and art. The building could be transformed to resemble Joseph Warren’s birth home, in what would be a five-year development project.

Warren, a physician, served as president of the Massachusetts Provincial Congress, which was established by the colonists after the British disbanded the colonial legislature, and was a leader of the Sons of Liberty. He was killed June 17, 1775, while fighting in the Battle of Bunker Hill in Massachusetts.

Warren County was created in 1813 and named in his honor.

Said Teri Podnorszki Rogers, Executive Director of Warren County Historical Society: “This would essentially create a one-of-a-kind national historic site that would honor the history and legacy of Joseph Warren for whom our county is named.”

Said Rachel Seeber, Chairwoman of the Warren County Board of Supervisors: “We are very excited about this proposal that would celebrate the important role that Joseph Warren had in our region’s history. This will not only serve as a great educational resource for our residents, but would also be an attraction to bring visitors to Warren County to see all that we have to offer. Our workshop meeting last night afforded our members and the public the opportunity to learn about this exciting addition to our community and we are grateful for the hard work, dedication and enthusiasm of our partners with the Warren County Historical Society.”

Said Queensbury Supervisor John Strough: "Joseph Warren is the man whose actions and words struck the match that lit the powder keg that would become the Revolution and our separation from Britain. I think this is going to be one of the greatest things to happen to this area in a long time. It certainly is inspiring and it will help us to become a destination point.”