The Scandals of Saratoga: A New Exhibition Uncovers the Darker Side of the Gilded Age
Saratoga Springs may be known for its elegance, grand hotels, mineral springs, horse racing, and glittering Gilded Age society — but behind the glamour were stories of scandal, controversy, and social tension.
On May 13 from 5:00–7:00 pm, the Saratoga Springs History Museum will open a new exhibition, The Scandals of Saratoga: The Downfall of Gilded Age Glories, curated by Shoshi Cohen, a graduating senior from Skidmore College. The exhibition was created in collaboration with the museum as part of Cohen’s senior art history honors project.
The exhibition explores three dramatic scandals that shaped, shocked, and complicated Saratoga’s Gilded Age reputation: the murder of Frank Walworth, the decline of the Canfield Clubhouse amid illegal gambling controversies, and the barring of Jewish guests from the Grand Union Hotel under Judge Henry Hilton.
Together, these stories reveal a different side of Saratoga’s celebrated past. While the Gilded Age is often remembered for luxury and refinement, this exhibition looks beneath the surface at the ways power, privilege, reputation, exclusion, and ambition played out in one of America’s most fashionable resort destinations.
Visitors are invited to attend the free opening reception on May 13 from 5:00–7:00 pm at the museum. Guests will have the opportunity to view the exhibition, learn more about the research behind it, and enjoy light refreshments, including crudités, a cheese plate, water, and soft drinks.
The Scandals of Saratoga is an exciting new addition to the museum’s Gilded Age exhibitions and offers a fresh, engaging look at the people and events that helped define Saratoga Springs during one of its most fascinating eras.
Event Details
Exhibition: The Scandals of Saratoga: The Downfall of Gilded Age Glories
Opening Reception: May 13, 5:00–7:00 pm
Location: Saratoga Springs History Museum
Admission: Free
Refreshments: Crudités, cheese plate, water, and soft drinks will be served.