Who Were the First Adirondackers?

Who Were the First Adirondackers?

Sunday, November 8, 2026 | 2:00 PM

Tannery Pond Center | North Creek, NY

Who were the first Adirondackers? Were they trees or humans?

Discover the fascinating history of the Adirondack region during a special presentation at Tannery Pond Center featuring artist David Kanietakeron Fadden and scientist Curt Stager, co-authors of the newly released book, The First Adirondackers.

While many assume that humans first arrived in the Adirondacks with European settlement, evidence indicates that Indigenous peoples have occupied the North Country for at least 12,000 years, dating back to the period following the last ice age.

Through a combination of scientific research, historical evidence and Indigenous perspectives, Fadden and Stager will explore the region's earliest human inhabitants and the deep connections between people and the Adirondack landscape.

Meet the Presenters

David Kanietakeron Fadden

An accomplished artist, storyteller, illustrator, writer and sculptor, Fadden grew up in Onchiota, New York. His artwork celebrates and interprets Haudenosaunee culture, with acrylic paintings among his best-known works.

His family's Six Nations Iroquois Center in Onchiota features much of his artwork and is dedicated to interpreting Mohawk and Haudenosaunee cultures while challenging common stereotypes.

Curt Stager

A scientist, educator and author, Stager holds an endowed research chair and teaches natural sciences at Paul Smith's College. His research focuses on climate change and environmental history, and his work has appeared in publications including The New York Times, National Geographic and Science.

Book Signing and Discussion

Following the presentation, both authors will be available to sign copies of The First Adirondackers and speak with attendees.

Books will be available for purchase in the lobby. Cash or check will be accepted.

Event Details

Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026

Time: 2:00 PM

Location: Tannery Pond Center, corner of Route 28N and Main Street, North Creek, NY

Admission: Free; suggested donation of $10 at the door

Book Sales: Cash or check

Phone: 518-251-2505

Email: director@tannerypondcenter.org

Website: https://tannerypond.org/

Join Tannery Pond Center for an engaging afternoon of discovery and a closer look at the Indigenous history of the Adirondacks, stretching back thousands of years before European settlement.