Warren County Historical Society announces winner of Hon. John D. Austin Contribution to History Award

The Warren County Historical Society and the Austin family are pleased to announce that John Strough of Queensbury is the winner of the 2024 “Hon. John D. Austin Contribution to History Award.” The award is presented annually to a local person who has demonstrated a consistent dedication to Warren County and regional history and genealogy through volunteer service and is given in memory of the late Judge John D. Austin of Queensbury, who was a founding member of the Society.
 
Nominated by Carolyn Curren of Queensbury, Mr. Strough was lauded for his dedication to Warren County through his professional work and service, his involvement in community history education and events, his prolific writing about local history, and his significant contribution to furthering the promotion of historical institutions and museums in this area.
 
John has also served as Queensbury Town Supervisor for multiple terms beginning in 2014. Previously, he was elected to five terms as Town Councilman for Ward 3. He also served as Deputy Town Supervisor in 2013. He has spearheaded many significant legislative initiatives as well as serving on or directing several local boards and committees in the community, including the SUNY Adirondack Board, the Warren County EDC Board, the Warren County Historical Society Board, and many Lake George preservation committees and boards. He developed, designed, and built the Rush Pond Way and Halfway Brook hiking and biking trail systems and oversees the direction and implementation of many major infrastructure projects for Queensbury. He continues to be a leader in furthering important economic development projects. Additionally, he has published articles and essays on Joseph Warren, Blind Rock, land and lake preservation, and historical summations on Queensbury and Warren County history and heritage. 
 
John has lived, worked, and served his entire life in Queensbury, Warren County. He retired from a long career as a history teacher at Queensbury Union Free School District. He and his wife, Chris, have raised a son and a daughter and are now proud grandparents.
 
Mr. Strough will receive his award at the WCHS Annual Meeting on Saturday, January 25, 2025, 11am to 2pm at the Holiday Inn, Lake George. Tickets for the brunch and ceremony are $35. Please call 518-743-0734 or email secretary@wcnyhs.org to make a reservation.