The St. Andrew’s Society of Albany, NY was founded over 200 years ago in 1803., starting with 18 men of Scottish origin who wished to help their fellow descendants and be of “productive of good in the city”. Initially their activities were centered around welcoming and assisting with new arrivals of a Scots background, eventually filling the organization with a wide variety of members of different backgrounds. Their overall purpose? “To relieve the distressed” quietly without saying. Since then the society has participated and supported a variety of charitable causes and activities - including hosting Historic Albany Foundation’s Washington Avenue Celebration.
“The Rooms”
The St. Andrew’s Society has occupied the building at 150 Washington Ave since 1928, but the story of the building stretches further into the past. Built in 1891, this three-story brownstone was originally the home of James McKinney (co-owner of a local iron manufacturing company) . It was designed by Edward Ogden and Sons as a residence. Upon purchase, the Society completely refurbished the first and second floors, designed by David C. Lithgow.
First Floor
Parlor - Furnished in an 1890’s style, visitors can see photographs of past presidents of the society displayed.
Assembly Hall
An “oak-beamed room with ceiling of blue” (D. Lithgow) complete with shields of Scottish clans and spun glass Jacobite windows - as well as a replica stone mantel, based on those commonly found in Scottish castles.
Stairway and Second Hall
Shows an exhibition of David Lithgow’s art and bronzed based reliefs of Signers of the Declaration of Independence by Charles Calverly.
Second Floor
Library
2,000 volumes of Scottish subjects
Rams Head Mull (gift of British War Relief Society in 1942)
Book Cases given by State Senator Curtis Douglas
Four Bronzed Panel (duplicates of those found on the Burns Monument)
King Alexander III Penny
Wee Kitchen
Fireplace - replica of one found i the Burns Corttege in Alloway, Ayrshire.
Curling Club Badges (late 19th Century)
Wednesday, 26 February 2020 from 17:30-19:30 / free event
