Dive Into New York’s Historic Anti-Rent Movement In Ballston Spa

New York has been at the forefront of some of America's largest revolutions. From the war for independence to the Stonewall riots, New Yorkers fight for what they believe is right.

One lesser discussed revolution was the Anti-Rent Movement in Upstate New York, and that history is coming back to life...

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The Anti-Rent Revolt

The history of this starts back in 1839, with the death of Stephen Van Rensselaer III. He was a landowner in Upstate New York that was known to be benevolent and lenient with his tenants. Upon his death, his assets were transferred to his heirs, who refused to forgive his tenants debts.

The tenants, unable to pay, found no help from the heirs or courts, so they began a revolt against the system. The Antirenter party arose from the struggle, and helped amend the New York State Constitution of 1846 to secure tenants' rights, abolish feudal tenures and outlaw leases lasting longer than twelve years.

History Comes Alive Again

During the conflict, several songs were written which show us a window into the vernacular of the time period. Nancy Newman, Professor in the Department of Music and Theatre and Joint Faculty in the Department of Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at the State University of New York at Albany, authored a compilation of these tunes, titled: Songs and Sounds of the Anti-Rent Movement as well Good Music for a Free People: The Germania Musical Society in Nineteenth-Century America.

On August 30th, 2026, Newman will lead a discussion of these songs, and give the public more insight into their history and legacy.

The event will be held at the Saratoga History Center, 21 Fairground Ave, Ballston Spa, NY. You can register for the event online HERE.