Before Olana, The Original New Yorkers

Ever wondered who lived in the Hudson Valley long before Frederic Church and his family? During this on-site talk, join historian Heather Bruegl to learn more about the Native Nations that called New York State home long before colonization. This program will touch on the Haudenosaunee, the Lenape and the Mohicans and will discuss history and land loss. This lecture is the first in a three-part series of talks at Olana’s Wagon House by Heather Bruegl focusing on topics related to American history, legacies of colonization, and indigenous histories.

Heather Bruegl is a citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin and first-line descendent of Stockbridge Munsee. She is a graduate of Madonna University in Michigan and holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in U.S. History. Heather consults for a variety of museums and universities and is a frequent lecturer at conferences on topics ranging from intergenerational racism and trauma to the fight for clean water in the Native community. Heather is a public historian, activist, and independent consultant who works with institutions and organizations for Indigenous sovereignty and collective liberation.