Plattsburgh Public Library Continues Monthly “Lifelong Learning for All” Series
Peru Gazette Library Photo.
Plattsburgh Public Library continues its monthly speaker series, Lifelong Learning for All, held on the first Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the library auditorium on the second floor. The series brings local experts to the library to share their knowledge with the community. All are welcome. Each session includes a half-hour presentation followed by Q&A/discussion.
On Wednesday, February 4. 2026, at 5:30 p.m., Nolan Cool of Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH) will present “Isaac Johnson: Stone Mason & Freedom Seeker.”
Master stone mason Isaac Johnson’s life story offers us a window into the African American experience in 19th-century Northern New York. Born enslaved in Kentucky and sold at age seven, Johnson eventually secured his freedom, served in a Black regiment of the Union Army during the Civil War, and afterward, made his way north to the St. Lawrence Valley. Working between rural Ontario, Ogdensburg, and Waddington, Johnson became a reputable stone mason and master builder. This presentation explores Johnson’s personal history, family life, and the architecture that his career produced.
About the Speaker:
Nolan Cool is the Educational Programs Director at Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH), the nonprofit historic preservation organization for the Adirondack region. Nolan coordinates AARCH’s extensive public education program, which includes a series of day-long outings across the Adirondack region, preservation-inspired workshops, and a series of talks and presentations.
For questions or to inquire about presenting in the series, contact Library Director Ben Carman at 518-536-7442 or carmanb@cityofplattsburgh-ny.gov.
Posted: January 27th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, City News, Community Events, Northern NY News, Peru/Regional History.