Community Foundation Grant Supports Historic Trail Project in Henderson

WATERTOWN — The Northern New York Community Foundation recently awarded a $2,500 grant to support the launch of an interactive trail project that highlights history in the Town of Henderson.  The Henderson Community Improvement Group is a local nonprofit leading the initiative to reignite the  trail project and generate greater interest in the community’s history and features. The group is developing a  variety of engaging content that will be accessible online and at several physical locations. Audio and visual  presentations, as well as digital photographs, will be packaged with specific project branding to create an  immersive experience for residents and community visitors. 

 “The Henderson Community Improvement Group is grateful for this grant from the Northern New York  Community Foundation,” said Dana Keefer, president, Henderson Community Improvement Group. “It will  enable us to complete phase one of the interactive history trail we are creating to promote the complex and  fascinating history of Henderson and the Henderson Harbor.” 

 Five sites have been identified as part of the initial project phase. Examples of feature stories include the  “Great Cable Carry” from the War of 1812 and “The Great Balloon Crash” of 1859. The group is collaborating  closely on this effort with the Henderson Historical Society and a few other community partners. The trail will  be available by driving or walking to each site.  

 Planning and development for the first phase of the history trail project will be completed later this year with  a public launch expected in spring 2026. A second project phase will include the identification and development  of additional historical sites to expand the trail’s reach. The project will serve as a long-term educational and  cultural resource for the southern Jefferson County region. 

About the Northern New York Community Foundation 

the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties.  Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and generous families  and individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and scholarships from an endowment and  collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable  objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy  while inspiring others. 

 The Community Foundation is a resource for local charitable organizations, donors, professional advisors  and nonprofit organizations. It also works to bring people together at its permanent home in the Northern New  York Philanthropy Center to discuss challenges our communities face and find creative solutions that strengthen  the region and make it a great place to live, work, and play.