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September 26, 2017Albany History Race Hits the Road on Sept. 30
Local history buffs and people interested in learning more about Albany’s storied past can test their knowledge as they sprint around Albany visiting historic sites when Albany Public Library’s award-winning Albany History Race returns on Saturday, Sept. 30. This year’s event features locations and clues based on the Albany Fire Department’s rich history and notable Albany fires.
The Albany History Race is an “Amazing Race”-style scavenger hunt perfect for history experts, novices, and visitors alike. It’s easy to participate in the race, and no prior knowledge of Albany history is necessary. Teams are required to register with the library and then meet at the Albany Heritage Visitors Center at 2 pm on race day to get instructions and start their adventure.
This year, the library is supporting the efforts of the future Albany Firefighters Museum by showcasing locations and clues related to the Albany Fire Department and historic Albany fires. APL partnered with Albany Firefighter Tim Blaney and City Historian Tony Opalka to identify fire-related locations and develop clues for racers.
Here’s how the race works:
• Participants must form a team (with all teammates fitting into one car) and register.
• Teams meet at the Albany Heritage Visitors Center (25 Quackenbush Sq.) at 2 pm on Sept. 30, to receive clues directing them to locations in Albany.
• Teams have a few minutes to plan the quickest route to visit the locations.
• Participants then hop in their team car and race to the designated spots.
• Teams must document their visits with their cell phone or digital camera.
• The final stop is Albany Distilling Company’s new bar (75 Livingston Ave.) where teams that complete the race get pizza, and prizes are handed out to the fastest teams.
To participate in the race, one member of each team must register via the library’s online calendar.
For more details about the Albany History Race, please call the library’s Washington Ave. Branch at (518) 427-4376 or email localhistory@albanypubliclibrary.org.
