AARP Volunteer Honored for Preserving the Folk Music of New York State

Source: AARP.org | January 30, 2007

AARP believes in the power to make things better, and no one exemplifies that more than Stan Ransom, otherwise known as "The Connecticut Peddler."

Ransom a well-known folk musician was recently honored with a national Award of Merit by the Leadership in History awards committee of the American Association for State and Local History. He was acknowledged for his sustained efforts in preserving the folk music of New York State.

"I am honored to receive the Award of Merit," Ransom said. "I find joy in singing songs that are important to people."

For as long as he can remember, Ransom has been interested in music. In the 4th grade he formed the guitar playing duo the "Hartland Harmony Boys," then in the Army during World War II while stationed in Japan he was part of a choral group called "The Yensmen." In addition, he was an active member of the Yale Glee Club during his college years.

Ransom put his music career on hold to become a library director which he did successfully for over 30 years. Music was always his passion though and in his spare time he researched and collected traditional folk music of New York State. When he wasn't finding the origins of traditional songs, he was writing his own. Ransom retired in 1991 and devotes himself to music and volunteering.

In 1992, he recorded his first collection of humorous songs about Plattsburgh and Clinton County, entitled "Down the Saranac." Since its release, Ransom has recorded numerous albums and performed at coffee houses, nursing homes, and schools. He's proud of his legacy as "The Connecticut Peddler."

"Many of the songs I recorded would have disappeared if I had not preserved them," said Ransom. "By recording them I saved a lot of songs that were close to becoming extinct."

Despite his busy schedule, volunteerism is a huge part of Ransom's life. He volunteers at his local hospital library every morning, serves as the AARP Regional Advocacy Coordinator for New York State's North Country, and sits on the boards of many community organizations.

Ransom has been recognized by the AARP for his commitment to improving the lives of older New Yorkers and their families. He has demonstrated his leadership abilities and commitment to strengthening Social Security as well as educating his community on AARP's prescription drug affordability and cell phone consumer protection campaigns.

Altogether, Ransom has recorded 70 instrumental tunes and over 150 songs, of which he has composed 55. He is also a professional storyteller, and is currently working on a storytelling CD. In his spare time, he enjoys singing lullabies to his grandchildren.

Hear "The Connecticut Peddler" and learn more about the historical songs of New York State online.