The Greece Historical Society will highlight the history of Read’s Corners, better known as Paddy Hill, with a new exhibit at the Historical Museum, 595 Long Pond Road, opening Sunday, January 15 and continuing for the next few months. Learn about St. Ambrose Church, founded in 1829, later renamed Our Mother Of Sorrows, and the present brick church that was built in 1860. Also learn about the Irish settlers, Mother of Sorrows cemetery, Paddy Hill School, first built as a frame one room school in 1839 and the Paddy Hill Players, a theatrical group that performed for a quarter century. At 2 p.m. on opening day, volunteers will share the history and stories of the early days. Rev. Alex Bradshaw, pastor of Mother of Sorrows, will join the group at 3 p.m. to talk about the history of the parish and the efforts that have been made to preserve the old church. There will be Irish scones and clotted cream for refreshments.
The exhibit will continue on Sundays from 1:30 to 4 p.m. or by appointment.
Also during the winter months, the Museum will offer free Sunday programs. Donations to help support the Greece Historical Society and the operation of the museum are appreciated. Presentations will include, January 22, Aviation Pioneers of New York & Monroe County by Jonathan Arney, a member of the Vintage Aircraft Associations, 2 p.m.; January 29, Irondequoit Stories by Pay Wayne, Irondequoit town historian, 2 p.m.; February 5, The Rochester Area in 1968, 2 p.m.; February 12 Genealogy Tips by Scott Chase, 2 p.m.; February 19, In Search of the Paddy Hill Players by Bill Sauers, 2 p.m.; February 26, Rochester Public Library History, 1911-2011 by Maureen Whalen, retired librarian, Charlotte Branch, 2 p.m. For information call (585) 225-3760 or visit www.greecehistoricalsociety.net.
