Night Sky Over the Neilson Farm

On September 12, 1777 over 8,000 troops with the Northern Army arrived at Bemus Heights to capitalize on geographic features in the Hudson River Valley. This gave them a strategic advantage against the British Army, who were trying to make their way south to Albany. A week later, the Battle of Freeman’s Farm took place.

Join us 249 years later for an exciting special event! This year we will be hosting our annual night sky program at the Neilson Farm (Stop 2 on the Battlefield Tour Road). Park rangers and volunteers will be discussing the army’s arrival, camp life, the impact to civilians in the area, and our shared connection to the night sky. See the Neilson House lit by candlelight and marvel at the stars above.

A 45-minute presentation will take place at 8:15 p.m. Visitors can arrive between 5:45 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. to enjoy sunset, speak with park staff and volunteers, visit the Neilson House, and find their spots for the presentation. Junior Rangers can also work on a Night Sky Explorer book and earn a patch!

Schedule:
- Date: Sep 12, 2026
- 5:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. — Tour Road Gate Open
- 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. — Neilson House Open House
- 8:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. — Ranger Program (45-minute presentation)
- Duration: 3 hours and 15 minutes

Fees and location:
- This event is free to attend.
- Location: Neilson Farm (Stop 2)
- Latitude and Longitude: 42.986128, -73.641272

Contact:
- Kristin Vinduska

Event Type:
- Living History

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see the park after dark and learn about the Battles of Saratoga!