Erastus Dow Palmer: The "Sculptor of this City" Presentation

PRESENTER: Dr. Lynn Radlick, author of the recently released book, Erastus Dow Palmer: Sculptor of this City. Dr. Radlick was previously a Professor of Biology at Siena College and later RPI. She and her husband, Dr. Michael Radlick are long-standing historical researchers and taphophiles who have been involved in researching, writing and presenting on Albany Rural Cemetery for over 30 years.

Have you ever wondered about the stories behind the beautiful memorials in Albany Rural Cemetery? Hidden among them are works by Erastus Dow Palmer, the carpenter, cameo carver and sculptor who rose to international fame as one of the 19th century's most celebrated artists. Within a year of his arrival in Albany, the Albany Evening Journal hailed Palmer as "the Sculptor of this City." How did a self-taught artist achieve such acclaim? In this engaging presentation, Dr. Radlick introduces Palmer and traces his remarkable journey from skilled tradesman to internationally renowned sculptor. She explores his enduring legacy through the memorials he created in Albany Rural Cemetery, blending historical and contemporary images to highlight Palmer's artistry, the memorials he designed and the remarkable people they commemorate.

Remembered in Stone: The Legacy of
Erastus Dow Palmer

Walking Tours

PRESENTER: Dr. Lynn Radlick, author of the recently released book, Erastus Dow Palmer: Sculptor of this City. Lynn was previously a Professor of Biology at Siena College and later RPI. She and her husband, Dr. Michael Radlick are long-standing historical researchers and taphophiles who have been involved in researching, writing and presenting on Albany Rural Cemetery for over 30 years.

Step into Albany Rural Cemetery, an open-air museum of Victorian funerary art including twelve works by the internationally celebrated 19th-century sculptor Erastus Dow Palmer. Among these is one of his most renowned masterpieces, Angel of the Sepulchre – a full-sized plaster cast of which is prominently displayed in the rotunda of the Albany Institute of History and Art. This combination walking/driving tour highlights memorials for a range of individuals—infants, a young daughter and a young mother, as well as politicians, businessmen, and other professionals. Dr. Radlick will also guide you to Palmer's final resting place, marked by a monument designed by Marcus T. Reynolds with input from Palmer's famous son and Impressionist painter, Walter Launt Palmer. The monument is adorned with reproductions of two of Palmer's most popular works from the 1850s. Experience history, artistry, and memory intertwined in this serene and beautiful historic cemetery.

NOTE: Dress comfortably and for the weather. Activities will involve walking on uneven surfaces, around burial plots and carpooling between sites. If weather is inclement, a presentation and discussion at the cemetery's Chapel will occur instead. Follow signs to Cypress Pond.

Follow this link for directions to the cemetery: Albany Rural Cemetery Map. There are two entrances to the cemetery: the main gate off Broadway in Menands and the south gate entrance off Route 378 (Menand Rd. at Van Rensselaer Blvd).

Andrew Meneely and the Meneely Family Wreath-Laying

A commemorative event marking the 200th anniversary of the opening of one of the most prominent bell foundries in the United States: The Meneely Bell Foundry, located in West Troy, now Watervliet, New York. Andrew Meneely (1802-1851), a trained bell caster, and his sons made thousands of bells for churches, schools and other civic organizations throughout the country and around the world during their lifetime. Known for their exceptional tone and craftsmanship, many Meneely bells are still in use today. In partnership with the Watervliet Historical Society, we will commemorate this important bicentennial celebration by laying a wreath at the Meneely family gravesite. Join us in paying tribute to this incredibly talented craftsman, his family and their enduring legacy.

NOTE: This event will require walking a short distance in the cemetery from the Chapel to Section 58, Middle Ridge, however, carpooling to the burial site will be available. Dress comfortably and for the weather. Activities will involve walking on uneven surfaces and in between burial plots.

Follow this link for directions to the cemetery: Albany Rural Cemetery Map. There are two entrances to the cemetery: the main gate off Broadway in Menands and the south gate entrance off Route 378 (Menand Rd. at Van Rensselaer Blvd).

Ales From the Crypt – Walking Tour

PRESENTERS: Albany Beer Historian Craig Gravina, and Maeve McEneny Johnson, Director of Community Engagement at Discover Albany

This tour showcases Albany's unique brewing history and the many beer brewers from days gone by buried at the cemetery. Whether you are a beer lover, a history lover, or just want to enjoy an enlightening afternoon in a beautiful spot, join us as we raise a glass to Albany's rich brewing history and regale you with stories of the titans of Albany brewing who now rest in peace at Albany Rural Cemetery. The tour will culminate with a tasting featuring beers from Common Roots Brewing Company. This event is generously sponsored by the Common Roots Brewing Company.

NOTE: Attendees must be at least 21 years of age. Dress comfortably and for the weather. Activities will involve walking on uneven surfaces, around burial plots and carpooling between sites. If the weather is inclement, the event will be held indoors at the cemetery's Chapel.

Follow this link for directions to the cemetery: Albany Rural Cemetery Map. There are two entrances to the cemetery: the main gate off Broadway in Menands and the south gate entrance off Route 378 (Menand Rd. at Van Rensselaer Blvd).

Presidential Wreath-Laying at the Grave of
Chester A. Arthur

Please join us at our annual ceremony to honor the birthday of Chester A. Arthur, 21st President of the United States. In keeping with decades of tradition, a wreath sent by the White House will be laid at the gravesite by representatives of the armed services. Join us for this solemn and patriotic event, honoring the "Gentleman Boss." Light refreshments will be provided by the Friends of Albany Rural Cemetery. Follow Event signs to location.

Follow this link for directions to the cemetery: Albany Rural Cemetery Map. There are two entrances to the cemetery: the main gate off Broadway in Menands and the south gate entrance off Route 378 (Menand Rd. at Van Rensselaer Blvd). Signs to the event will also help with directions.

Stories from The Past – Walking Tour

PRESENTER: Michele Lyons-Polito, Friends Volunteer, Psychic/Medium, Ghost Rescuer and Bagpiper

Join Michele as she leads us on a guided walking tour that will highlight local and spiritual history. We will visit several gravesites where Michele will share the history of those interred and connect with spirits for them to share their stories.

NOTE: Dress comfortably and for the weather. Activities will involve walking on uneven surfaces, around burial plots and may involve carpooling between sites.

Follow this link for directions to the cemetery: Albany Rural Cemetery Map. There are two entrances to the cemetery: the main gate off Broadway in Menands and the south gate entrance off Route 378 (Menand Rd. at Van Rensselaer Blvd).

The Rural Cemetery Movement and Albany Rural Cemetery's Role – Presentation

PRESENTERS: Dr. Michael Radlick and Dr. Lynn Radlick, long-standing historical researchers and taphophiles who have been involved in researching, writing and presenting on Albany Rural Cemetery for over 30 years.

The Rural Cemetery movement began in Europe at the beginning of the 19th century and later spread to America. This presentation will explore the many factors that drove this powerful movement and the mark it left on cities across the US. The founding and early development of Albany Rural Cemetery will be discussed within the context of the Rural Cemetery Movement. Register for this event by visiting the Town of Colonie's Library website or call their information desk at 518.810.0314. This event is kindly sponsored by the Colonie Historical Society and the Friends of the Albany Rural Cemetery.

Trunk or Treat

Bring your children for a fun, spooky, and safe Halloween event on the grounds of the cemetery. Enjoy food from local vendors, purchase cemetery merchandise and take a chance or two at winning beautifully crafted raffle baskets! Become a "spirit of the season" and join in by decorating your vehicle and passing out candy! Call and leave a message at (518) 704-4761 or send an email to friends@albanyruralcemetery if you are interested in decorating your vehicle or distributing candy. A boo-tiful time will be had by all!

Follow this link for directions to the cemetery: Albany Rural Cemetery Map. There are two entrances to the cemetery: the main gate off Broadway in Menands and the south gate entrance off Route 378 (Menand Rd. at Van Rensselaer Blvd).

How the Rich were Buried: Traces of Tiffany 

In Albany Rural Cemetery – Presentation

Louis Comfort Tiffany was one of the most prolific and talented designers of the Gilded Age. Few people know that this remarkable and multi-talented artist was also in the gravestone business. His Tiffany Studio in New York designed over 760 documented cemetery monuments for wealthy families of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. We have at least 30 documented Tiffany gravestone monuments in Albany Rural Cemetery.

Join Drs. Michael and Lynn Radlick for a richly illustrated presentation exploring Tiffany's lesser-known cemetery monument work. Drawing on their recent research, the Radlicks will share a more definitive inventory of Tiffany monuments at Albany Rural Cemetery along with insights into Louis Comfort Tiffany's background and artistic approach.

Follow this link for directions to the cemetery: Albany Rural Cemetery Map. There are two entrances to the cemetery: the main gate off Broadway in Menands and the south gate entrance off Route 378 (Menand Rd. at Van Rensselaer Blvd).

Holiday Shop

and Bake Sale

Stop by and join the Friends of Albany Rural Cemetery as we celebrate our fifth annual Holiday Shop and Bake Sale! Start (or finish) your holiday purchases by selecting from an array of unique gifts, festive décor, and ARC merchandise offered for sale. Take your chances at winning one of our hand-crafted, made with love, raffle baskets, and sample a large variety of tempting tasty treats. Say hello to Friends Board members, volunteers, and make new acquaintances. The more, the merrier, to help Friends kick-off the season of giving!

Follow this link for directions to the cemetery: Albany Rural Cemetery Map. There are two entrances to the cemetery: the main gate off Broadway in Menands and the south gate entrance off Route 378 (Menand Rd. at Van Rensselaer Blvd).