Rediscovering the American West—Right in the North Country
by: Maggie McKenna
Editor's Note: During the week of May 5th, this editor visited Colorado for a grandson's graduation from Colorado University – CU. Driving through the countryside, I stepped right into Frederic Remington mode. Upon returning home, I received this article. It made me smile and since we are promoting Life in the Thousand Islands, I believe that this is most appropriate. Enjoy!

The Frederic Remington Art Museum Steps Boldly Into a New Era
In the heart of historic Ogdensburg, New York, tucked along the scenic shores of the St. Lawrence River, there lies a cultural gem that often surprises even seasoned travelers—the Frederic Remington Art Museum. With its elegant 19th-century facade and a collection as rich in narrative as it is in history, the Museum serves as a beacon for art lovers and history buffs alike. A visit here is not just a step into a gallery; it’s a step into the heart of North American heritage, capturing the enduring spirit of the American West, Northern New York, and Canada.
Named for one of America’s most iconic chroniclers of the frontier, the Museum houses a vast collection of Frederic Remington’s paintings, sculptures, and personal artifacts. His vivid depictions of cowboys, cavalrymen, Native Americans, and rugged landscapes are more than just images—they are windows into a time and culture that helped shape the continent’s identity.



Photos courtesy the Remington Art Museum, Ogdensburg, NY.
But there’s more to the Museum than Remington. Visitors are often surprised to discover that it is also home to the world’s largest permanent exhibition of sculptures by Sally James Farnham, a groundbreaking artist whose story deserves far greater recognition. A native of Ogdensburg and a contemporary of Remington’s, Farnham’s work showcases her extraordinary talent and tenacity in a field where few women were recognized during her lifetime. Her artistry graces public monuments across the country, including the Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Ogdensburg Library Park—conveniently located just across the street from the Museum.
Today, the Frederic Remington Art Museum is not just preserving the past—it’s boldly reinventing itself for the future. Under the leadership of a dynamic new team, the Museum is embracing a new era of educational outreach, community engagement, and artistic exploration.
We’re shifting the Museum’s focus toward education and accessibility That means rolling out fresh educational programming, curating exciting new exhibits, and actively involving local artists and community members in our work. We want the Museum to be a place where everyone—from students to seniors—feels welcome to explore and create.
Among those leading the charge is Julie Pratt, the Museum’s passionate Education Manager. Pratt has already overseen a dramatic expansion of the Museum’s programming, particularly for homeschool families—a demographic often underserved in rural communities.


Photos courtesy the Remington Art Museum, Ogdensburg, NY.
“Our homeschool art program has really taken off,” she shares. “There’s such a hunger in the area for meaningful, hands-on learning experiences in the arts. Parents have been so grateful, and the kids absolutely love it. But it’s not just for them—we’ve got offerings for everyone, from toddlers to retirees.”
One of the most engaging of these educational programs is the new FRED Talks lecture series that delves into topics ranging from the inner workings of museums and galleries to curatorial ethics and conservation techniques. “It’s a chance to go behind the scenes and learn how the art world really operates,” says Pratt. “People love that inside perspective—it makes the whole experience feel more personal and accessible.”
Other popular programs include Art in Conversation, a bi-weekly discussion forum where participants examine a single artwork in depth, and the Sketch and Study Club, a welcoming space for artists of all skill levels to draw together, share tips, and inspire one another. These programs foster community among creatives and curious minds alike, helping the Museum become a place to explore art actively.
Behind the exhibits themselves is Romi Sebald, the Museum’s new curator, who is bringing fresh energy and vision to the Museum’s collections and exhibition spaces. She is especially excited about the upcoming John Morrow Retrospective, opening on July 26th.
“This is going to be one of our biggest exhibitions of the year,” says Sebald. “John Morrow is a celebrated local artist whose work resonates deeply with this community. The retrospective will fill nearly all our rotating gallery spaces, showcasing the breadth of his creative journey.”
Sebald believes that engaging with local artists like Morrow—and through initiatives like the Museum’s Artist in Residence program—is key to the Museum’s revitalization. “Art isn’t something that only lives in big cities—it’s happening here, in our neighborhoods, and our job is to bring it forward for everyone to engage with.”
Helping to spread that message is Ashley Swanson, the Museum’s new Communications Manager. With a background in marketing and a passion for the arts, Swanson is on a mission to elevate the Museum’s profile—both locally and beyond.
“We have this world-class institution right here in Ogdensburg, and yet so many people still don’t know it exists,” Swanson says. “That has to change. One of my major initiatives is our brand-new email newsletter, which will keep people informed about everything from exhibits to events to membership perks. It’s a simple but powerful way to stay connected.”
In the background—but no less essential—is Jamie Behm, the Museum’s Membership and Operations Manager. From overseeing large-scale maintenance projects to organizing logistics for events, Behm is working diligently to ensure that the Museum’s physical presence reflects the quality of what’s inside—and her efforts are not going unnoticed.


Photos courtesy the Remington Art Museum, Ogdensburg, NY.
“There’s a lot of deferred maintenance we’re starting to address,” she explains. “Our roof is getting a much-needed overhaul this year, and we’re also sprucing up the landscaping around the building. It’s important that the Museum looks just as inviting on the outside as it feels on the inside.”
The Museum’s financial health is also in capable hands, thanks to Finance Manager Debbie Ormasen. While the institution is on stable footing, Ormasen emphasizes that community support is essential to its continued growth.
“Every dollar makes a difference,” she notes. “Whether it’s a donation, a gift shop purchase, or simply attending one of our events, your support helps us sustain these incredible programs and exhibitions.”
And speaking of events, one of the most exciting weekends of the year is on the horizon. This August, the Museum will host a four-day extravaganza designed to raise both funds and awareness. The festivities will include a golf tournament, a horse show, a formal gala dinner, and finish off with a lively Family Day at the Museum—each offering a unique way for patrons to celebrate and support the Museum’s mission.

“It’s going to be an unforgettable weekend,” McKenna says. “It’s about bringing people together to celebrate art, history, and community—and to ensure that the Frederic Remington Art Museum continues to thrive for generations to come.”
Looking even further ahead, the Museum is preparing for a major event tied to a national celebration. “We’re also planning a large exhibition project for the America 250 anniversary, which will kick off in 2026,” McKenna adds. “It will be a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reflect on our shared heritage and to explore how Remington’s work—and our region—fits into that bigger picture. We’re excited to share more soon.”
As the Museum charges forward into this new chapter, it carries with it not only the legacy of Frederic Remington and Sally James Farnham, but also the creative spirit of Northern New York itself. Whether you’re an art connoisseur, a curious student, or a casual visitor passing through, there’s something waiting for you inside these walls.
To learn more about upcoming events, educational programs, or how to get involved, visit the Museum’s website (www.fredericremington.org) or stop by in person. You might just discover that one of the finest artistic experiences in the region is closer than you think.
By Maggie McKenna, Executive Director r
Maggie McKenna is leading a bold revitalization of the nationally accredited institution. Since stepping into the role in late 2023, she has focused on strategic planning, staff and financial management, community engagement, and fundraising. Previously, she co-led the St. Lawrence County Arts Council, where she launched the North Country Arts Festival and opened a new arts center in downtown Potsdam. She Maggie holds an MBA from Clarkson University and degrees in Violin Performance and Mathematics from SUNY Potsdam. She lives in Potsdam, NY, with her husband, two children, and two dogs, and enjoys music, gardening, and local events.