Hope Russell, PhD

I grew up in Western New York, spending summers at Niagara Falls, Old Fort Niagara, and other historic sites. Little did I know that one day I’d be researching, writing about, and revisiting many of those same places in what has truly become my dream job. As a historian with the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area, I get to combine my love of storytelling, local history, nature, art, and community. I’m endlessly inspired by the way history connects us to the past, to the land, to one another, and, significantly, to the present moment. Every tour feels like a chapter in a much larger story--and I’m always excited to share and live great history with others.