Traditional Arts in Upstate New York (TAUNY)

Old ways get continued life through this group’s work

The North Country is a big place – and the traditions it encompasses are pretty sweeping, too. Whether music, food, crafts, storytelling or other traditional arts, TAUNY’s mission is to collect, study and preserve the folk traditions of the 14- county area north of the Mohawk River. Its Canton gallery features rotating exhibits that highlight recent research, and the gift shop, the North Country Folkstore, sells items by or about local people.

At a glance
  • TAUNY’s “Register of Very Special Places” recognizes local landmarks, such as Donnelly’s Ice Cream in Saranac Lake and Birdsfoot Farm, a commune in Canton.
  • TAUNY researchers maintain an extensive archive of audio and video recordings, photos and field notes to preserve records of local life.
  • Keep an eye on the calendar for interactive workshops in traditional ways – learn to braid a chair pad, make a corn husk doll or bake gingerbread.

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