Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Press Release

August 25, 2010

Eileen Larrabee
Dan Keefe
518-486-1868

Fairgoers Invited to Visit the State Park at the Fair

State Historic Preservation Office to highlight discovery of 18th Century Ship Unearthed in Lower Manhattan

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Carol Ash today invited visitors to the New York State Park at the Fair, a three-acre mini-park open at the Great New York State Fair from August 26 to September 1.

"Visiting the State Park at the Fair is a great opportunity to take a break from the crowds and learn about what you can discover in our state park system," Ash said. "State parks offer something for everyone. Stop by the State Park at the Fair and plan your next adventure."

Throughout the week, the many recreational and education opportunities offered by the New York State Park system will be highlighted, including the work of the State Historic Preservation Office. From Thursday through Saturday, August 26 to 28, State Historic preservation archeologist Douglas Mackey will discuss the incredible discovery of an 18th Century wood-hulled vessel about 20 to 30 feet below street level on the World Trade Center construction site in July, the first large-scale archaeological find along the Manhattan waterfront in decades.

Other free hands-on activities, giveaways, demonstrations and exhibits - including a mini golf course, a visitor center, and a Birds of Prey/Raptor exhibit - will be featured throughout the week. Visit www.nysparks.com for more information on State Park at the Fair offerings.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation operates 178 parks and 35 historic sites, which attract over 55 million visitors a year. More information is available by visiting www.nysparks.com, connecting on Facebook, or following us on Twitter.