Sharon Historical Society Presents: Bringing the Past Back to Life – Using AI to Restore and Preserve Historical Photos and Documents

SHARON SPRINGS – The Sharon Historical Society invites the public to attend its upcoming program, “Bringing the Past Back to Life – Using AI to Restore and Preserve Historical Photos and Documents” presented online via Zoom on Monday, May 25 at 7 PM.

What if those faded, scratched, nearly forgotten photographs in your attic could be brought back to life - clear, vibrant, and full of detail you've never seen before? Join Historian Ron Ketelsen for a fascinating and eye-opening program exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming the way we restore and preserve historical photos and documents-and the best part is, this isn't just for tech experts anymore. Today's AI tools are accessible, practical, and easier to use than ever before. Through real examples and live demonstrations, you'll see how damaged images can be repaired, enhanced, and even reimagined, revealing faces, places, and stories once thought lost to time. Whether you're a family historian, a collector, or simply curious, this program will change the way you look at the past.

Ketelsen, who is somewhat of an AI expert, said, “Every faded photograph holds a story waiting to be seen again. With today’s AI technology, we’re no longer just preserving history — we’re uncovering details, faces, and memories that time nearly erased. You don’t need to be a computer expert or professional designer to begin restoring history. You simply need to be shown how. In this fascinating program, we’ll explore a variety of AI tools, techniques, and restoration methods that can help repair, enhance, and preserve old images and documents. Through real examples and live demonstrations, we’ll also examine the advantages, limitations, and ethical questions surrounding the use of artificial intelligence in historical preservation. Whether you’re a family historian, collector, or simply curious about the future of preserving the past, this program may forever change the way you look at old photographs.”

This program is available via Zoom only. (NOTE: If you are unable to watch the program at this time, a link will be emailed to you once the playback is available.)

The Sharon Historical Society’s Lecture Series continues its tradition of twice-monthly programs, typically held on the 2nd and 4th Mondays at 7 PM. All programs are offered via Zoom, with select programs also available in person.

This program is free for members as part of their membership benefits. Non-members are encouraged to make a donation to support the lecture series and may choose to join the Society during registration.

For more information or to register, visit:

www.sharonhistoricalsocietyny.org/upcoming-talks-and-programs or call (518) 860-5513.