There are several ways to include Brookside in your estate planning and therefore leave a lasting legacy to Brookside.  Of course, your gift will depend on your goals, assets, family considerations, and charitable interests.  The more common methods are discussed here.  Please note that Brookside’s legal name is the Saratoga County Historical Society (SCHS). 

Many donors leave a percentage of the residue of their estate.  After providing for relatives and friends, the estate specifies that all or a portion of the residue be given to SCHS.  For this option, the following wording is suggested: 

“I devise and give (all/or ____%) of my property, real and personal, wherever situated, herein called my residuary estate, to the Saratoga County Historical Society, 6 Charlton Street, Ballston Spa, NY  12020, to be used for the benefit of such organization in any manner its Board of Trustees deems appropriate.  The receipt of any officers of such organization shall be a complete release and discharge of my Executor for such payment and my Executor shall not be bound to see to the application thereof.” 

Another method is to leave a specific dollar amount:

“I give the sum of $_____ to the Saratoga County Historical Society, 6 Charlton Street, Ballston Spa, NY  12020, to be used for the benefit of such organization in any manner its Board of Trustees deems appropriate.  The receipt of any officers of such organization shall be a complete release and discharge of my Executor for such payment and my Executor shall not be bound to see to the application thereof.” 

A third choice is to leave a specific piece of property, which could include real estate, securities, or personal property. 

“I give <FULL DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY> to the Saratoga County Historical Society, 6 Charlton Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020, to be used for the benefit of such organization in any manner its Board of Trustees deems appropriate.  The receipt of any officers of such organization shall be a complete release and discharge of my Executor for such payment and my Executor shall not be bound to see to the application thereof.” 

No matter which method you choose, it is important that your will be prepared by an attorney experienced in estate planning.  The proper name of Brookside Museum is also important and should always appear as shown in the above examples, as Saratoga County Historical Society. 

In all cases, especially when donating property, it is important to discuss your intended plans with Brookside staff in advance to assure that your bequest can be accommodated.  Most bequests are for the general purposes of Brookside; however, if you wish to restrict the use for a specific purpose, it is in your best interests to discuss the intended use with staff before your will is executed.

Your legacy is an enduring tribute that reflects much thought and advance planning.  For more information about planned giving at Brookside, contact Joy Houle, Executive Director, at 518/885-4000 or via e-mail at jhoule@brooksidemuseum.org.