ADK Talks Podcast Episode: Adirondack Architectural Heritage: Preserving Place
Stories Behind the Adirondack Architecture We Love

Step back in time—and into the future of preservation. In this spirited episode of ADK Talks, Jane and Steve sit down with Erin Tobin, Executive Director of Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH), to uncover the unique and fascinating stories hidden in the Adirondacks’ historic architecture.
From the rustic grandeur of Great Camp Santanoni to the region’s Adirondack fire towers and even its forgotten Cold War missile silos, Erin shares how AARCH, through its inspiring work, saves and celebrates the unique buildings that define the Adirondack Park, a testament to the power of preservation and the stories written in wood, stone, and steel.

Great Camp Santanoni
What you’ll learn in this episode:
The fight to save Great Camp Santanoni—and the Japanese influence that makes it unique
How grassroots activism preserved the Adirondack fire towers
Why federal funding cuts threaten historic preservation efforts
AARCH’s tours, workshops, and hands-on programs—and why they sell out fast
Erin’s pick for a must-see hidden gem: Debar Pond Lodge, a “fjords-meet-Adirondacks” destination
Whether you’re a history buff, a preservation enthusiast, or just curious about the stories told in wood, stone, and steel, this episode will change how you see the Adirondacks.
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Rondaxe Fire Tower on Bald Mountain near Old Forge.
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Upcoming events in the Adirondack Park.
Attend an exhibit by Andy Mitchell, an Elizabethtown native, who has lived in NYC and Savannah, GA.
Expand your knowledge of Adirondack landmark, Camp Santanoni.
Enjoy a performance by the Seagle Festival of an engaging and fun opera designed for kids, but all ages will enjoy.
Enjoy a performance by the Seagle Festival of an engaging and fun opera designed for kids, but all ages will enjoy.
Lake George Summer Concert Series 2025 in Shepard Park continues with Professor Louie on July 30, 2025.
Shakespeare's bittersweet comedy of love, loss, and self-discovery featuring music by beloved local band Blessid Dirt.
Join The Sembrich and the World Awareness Children’s Museum for a special program celebrating Latin American music
Learn more about the impacts of climate change on the Adirondack loon population.
Raise a glass to an unforgettable evening. Sample a curated selection of the Adirondacks’ finest beer, wine, and spirits.
Stony Creek Mountain Days in the Adirondack southern woodlands.
Every year, the Town of Essex on Lake Champlain comes together to celebrate the community with a street festival.
During Durant Days, tour Alfred Vanderbilt’s magnificent estate and enjoy a 50% discount on the usual admission price.
2025 event in the King’s Garden at Fort Ticonderoga
Gore Mountain presents it’s first auto showcase for car enthusiasts.
Celebrate the summer and the local community with a day full of music, live entertainment, local food trucks, fun and games.
Sample fine wines, enjoy local flavors, and bid on Adirondack treasures—all for a great cause.
The Adirondack village of Whitehall, NY, hosts its annual Sasquatch Festival and Calling Contest in Skenesborough Park on September 28, 2024.