Sparta Historical Society

Humble Beginnings and with a Grand Vision

Founded in 2002 by Marjorie Strohsahl and Ed Fritsch along with a small group of charter members, the Sparta Historical Society began to provide the Sparta area with educational lectures and seasonal trips to historic sites. As the fledgling group grew, it began to look for an historic property in Sparta to preserve.

Then, in 1996, the Sparta Board of Education purchased the Mohawk Dairy and Van Kirk Homestead to build a middle school. The Homestead, that had been occupied by the Van Kirk family for over 200 years, remained after the school’s construction. Even though it was in disrepair, the house and grounds provided an opportunity for the society to fulfill its vision after eleven years of incorporation..

From the very beginning, the Sparta Historical Society has been following its educational mission by offering historical lecture programs on the second Thursday of March, May, September and November beginning at 7PM at the Sparta First Presbyterian Church. All are invited to attend these diverse topics presented by invited knowledgeable guest speakers. Members are free and non-members $10.