Sagamore Institute of the Adirondacks’ Traditional Arts Demonstrations are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts.

Demonstrations are included as a special segment of our daily History Tour, for a limited time only during the listed dates.

The iconic Adirondack pack basket has been a trusted companion of guides, woodsmen, and families for generations. Designed to carry everything from tools to provisions through rugged terrain, its sturdy form and distinctive shape have become a symbol of life in the North Country.

During this live demonstration, Linda Scherz will share the history, purpose, and enduring legacy of the Adirondack pack basket. Guests will learn about the materials traditionally used, the weaving techniques that give the basket its strength, and the craftsmanship required to shape and finish each piece.

Whether you are a lover of traditional skills, regional history, or fine craftsmanship, this demonstration offers a meaningful glimpse into the practical artistry that helped shape life in the Adirondacks.

Sagamore Institute of the Adirondacks’ Traditional Arts Demonstrations are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts.

Demonstrations are included as a special segment of our daily History Tour, for a limited time only during the listed dates.

At Great Camp Sagamore, craftsmanship is woven into every detail — from the grand stone fireplaces and their hand-forged fireplace screens to the striking chandeliers that glow in the Dining Hall. Created by traditional blacksmiths, these elements reflect the strength, beauty, and artistry of the Great Camp era.

Join Dave Woodward for a live artisan demonstration celebrating this enduring tradition. Watch as he shares the tools and techniques of historic blacksmithing, bringing to life the same hand-forged methods that shaped Sagamore’s iconic ironwork.

A chance to see sparks fly, steel transform, and history carried forward, one hammer strike at a time.

Sagamore Institute of the Adirondacks’ Traditional Arts Demonstrations are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts.

Demonstrations are included as a special segment of our daily History Tour, for a limited time only during the listed dates.

Join master artisan Helen Condon for a special braided rug demonstration celebrating one of America’s oldest domestic crafts.

With more than 50 years of experience, Helen carries forward a tradition she first learned at her grandmother’s side — transforming simple strips of fabric into beautifully braided works of art. During this engaging demonstration, she will share the history of rug braiding, explain the process of selecting and blending fabrics, and show how strips are cut, rolled, braided, and stitched into enduring designs.

Guests will also see examples of her distinctive braided baskets, adorned with feathers, fur, and other natural elements, making each piece truly one of a kind.

This is a wonderful opportunity to experience traditional craftsmanship up close, ask questions, and gain insight into a timeless art form that blends resourcefulness, creativity, and heart.

Sagamore Institute of the Adirondacks’ Traditional Arts Demonstrations are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts.

Demonstrations are included as a special segment of our daily History Tour, for a limited time only during the listed dates.

Join us for a special artisan woodcarving demonstration with master carvers Rick and Ellen Bütz and experience the timeless art of carving in the heart of the Adirondacks.

With more than 40 years of combined experience, Rick and Ellen bring extraordinary skill, warmth, and storytelling to their work. Rick is known nationally for his long-running PBS series, Woodcarving with Rick Bütz, where his clear instruction and deep respect for traditional handicraft have inspired generations of carvers. Ellen wrote the scripts and served as production coordinator for six seasons of the Public Television show, and she is also one of Sagamore’s beloved historical tour guides. Her knowledge of camp history and Adirondack culture adds rich context to the craft, connecting each carving to the broader story of the region’s artisans, guides, and makers.

Sagamore Institute of the Adirondacks’ Traditional Arts Demonstrations are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts.

Demonstrations are included as a special segment of our daily History Tour, for a limited time only during the listed dates.

Join us for a fascinating look at the art and craft of traditional canoe building in the Adirondacks with master builder Pat Smith. Rooted in generations of regional knowledge and lived experience, this demonstration explores the materials, tools, and techniques that have shaped classic Adirondack guideboats and wooden canoes.

Pat will share stories from the workshop, insights into the history of canoe building in the North Country, and a step-by-step look at how these elegant, functional boats come to life. Whether you’re a paddler, history enthusiast, or lover of fine craftsmanship, this program offers a deeper appreciation for an enduring Adirondack tradition.

Sagamore Institute of the Adirondacks’ Traditional Arts Demonstrations are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts.

Demonstrations are included as a special segment of our daily History Tour, for a limited time only during the listed dates.

Discover the timeless craft of chair caning with traditional artisan Chris Hubbard. In this engaging demonstration, Chris will showcase the intricate techniques used to restore and create hand-woven cane seats, preserving a skill that has been passed down through generations.

Learn about the history of chair caning, the natural materials involved, and the patience and precision required to transform a simple frame into a beautifully finished piece. This program offers a close-up look at a traditional craft that blends function, artistry, and enduring craftsmanship.

Sagamore Institute of the Adirondacks’ Traditional Arts Demonstrations are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts.

Demonstrations are included as a special segment of our daily History Tour, for a limited time only during the listed dates.

Explore the beauty and ingenuity of Adirondack guideboats with craftsman Chris Woodward. In this engaging program, Chris will share the history, design, and distinctive features that make these handcrafted boats an enduring symbol of the Adirondacks.

Drawing on his experience and deep appreciation for traditional boatbuilding, Chris will walk through the construction process, materials, and techniques that give guideboats their remarkable strength and grace. Whether you’re a paddler, history enthusiast, or admirer of fine craftsmanship, this presentation offers a closer look at one of the region’s most iconic watercraft traditions.

Sagamore Institute of the Adirondacks’ Traditional Arts Demonstrations are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts.

Demonstrations are included as a special segment of our daily History Tour, for a limited time only during the listed dates.

Join artisans Pat Burdick and Terri Burdick for a unique look at the timeless craft of quilting. In this engaging demonstration, they will share the techniques, tools, and traditions behind creating beautiful, functional quilts that have warmed homes and told stories for generations.

From piecing and pattern design to stitching and finishing, Pat and Terri will highlight the care, creativity, and community spirit woven into every quilt. Whether you’re an experienced quilter or simply curious about this enduring art form, this program offers a warm and inspiring glimpse into a cherished tradition.