Oswego County Today Highlights Proposed National Historic Park

Local historian to discuss history of Fort Ontario Holocaust Refugee Shelter at 'History on Tap' event

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The next 'History on Tap' program in Oswego, New York will feature a presentation by local historian Jonathan Kobelia on the building and landscape history of the proposed Fort Ontario Holocaust Refugee Shelter National Historic Park. The free public event will take place on March 3 at the Clarion Inn's Riverview Room.

Why it matters

The proposed national park would preserve the history and significance of the Fort Ontario Emergency Refugee Shelter, which was the only camp or shelter for Holocaust victims in the United States during World War II. Kobelia's presentation aims to educate the public about this important historical site and the ongoing efforts to establish it as a national park.

The details

Kobelia will discuss preliminary historical research into the section of the Fort Ontario National Register District that has been deemed eligible to become a national park. This includes buildings such as the Safe Haven Holocaust Refugee Shelter Museum, the Hot Stove Association / Oswego Little League, the Oswego County Opportunities' Head Start Pre-School Program, and the Oswego Art Association / Francis Marion Brown Theatre. The presentation will also cover buildings, trees, and other features that are no longer standing, using maps, photographs, and documents.

  • The 'History on Tap' event will take place on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 7 p.m.

The players

Jonathan Kobelia

A local historian and seasonal historian at Fort Ontario State Historic Site, Kobelia has been instrumental in updating historical research, educating visitors, and furnishing soldiers' squad rooms at the site. He is also a member of the Company of Military Historians and the Council on America's Military Past.

Safe Haven Holocaust Refugee Shelter Museum

The museum interprets the history and significance of the Fort Ontario Emergency Refugee Shelter, which served as the only camp or shelter for Holocaust victims in the United States during World War II.

Fort Ontario State Historic Site

The historic site is home to the proposed Fort Ontario Holocaust Refugee Shelter National Historic Park, which is the focus of Kobelia's presentation.

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What they’re saying

“The presentation also includes buildings, trees, and structural or natural features that are no longer standing by incorporating maps, photographs and documents examined by Kobelia.”

— Jonathan Kobelia, Local Historian (oswegocountytoday.com)

What’s next

The National Park Service is currently studying the section of the Fort Ontario National Register District to determine if it should be designated as a national historic park.

The takeaway

The 'History on Tap' event provides an opportunity for the public to learn more about the rich history and significance of the proposed Fort Ontario Holocaust Refugee Shelter National Historic Park, which aims to preserve an important piece of World War II history and educate future generations about the experiences of Holocaust refugees in the United States.