My parents immigrated to the United States from Pakistan and purchased a home in Saratoga in the late ’80s, which is when we officially moved here. From that moment on, I’ve felt I had multiple identities: American, Warriors Fan, Pakistani, Muslim, Saratogan, Bellarmine Bell, Cal Bear, hiking enthusiast—the list goes on.

One passion that remains constant is my love for history. It teaches us who we are and reminds us that many things we consider new have happened before. To quote The Onion: “History sighs, repeats self.”

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Belal Aftab: Saratoga is a community rooted in nature

Growing up in Saratoga, I learned about American history: the founding of our nation, the removal of Native Americans, slavery, wars, social movements and more. But what I find equally fascinating is our local history, which reflects the diverse stories and personal journeys of the people who call Saratoga home.

Saratoga’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths. The community here represents people from every corner of the globe. I grew up with friends of Chinese, Indian, African American, and Pakistani descent, among others. Despite global tensions—such as those between India and Pakistan—people here form friendships and share a commitment to making Saratoga an inclusive place. That sense of unity is a testament to how communities can come together and shape a collective future.

What does this have to do with Saratoga’s history? Every person who passes through our city—whether they’ve lived here for decades or just stopped by for a quick meal—is part of the narrative. We’re all contributors, leaving footprints that shape Saratoga’s identity.

In 1966 Florence Cunningham, the founder of the Saratoga Historical Foundation, wrote “The First Hundred Years of Saratoga.” Though out of print, it contains an incredible collection of stories from 1866 to 1966. These accounts aren’t just relics; they reveal how we became the community we are today. They explain why certain roads are named as they are, why certain traditions endure and what values guide the city’s development.

After reading Cunningham’s book, I realized these stories deserve a modern platform. Enter the Saratoga History Podcast. Hosted on Apple and Spotify, the podcast delves into our city’s history from multiple angles: Saratoga’s founding, notable landmarks and the personal accounts of everyday residents who have quietly shaped our community. We’ve published two episodes so far and plan to release more throughout the year, each exploring a unique facet of Saratoga.

Why a podcast? It’s accessible. Most of us are busy, and it’s often easier to listen to a story while commuting or cooking than to read through entire books. It’s also an opportunity for newcomers, longtime residents and even curious visitors to learn about Saratoga’s past in a fun and engaging way. Along the way, we hope to spark new conversations and foster a deeper sense of belonging.

Ultimately, I hope you’ll tune in, learn something new about where we live and maybe be inspired to share your own memories or perspectives. After all, history isn’t just about the past; it’s about how we choose to shape our future. By understanding how we arrived here, we’re better equipped to decide where we go next.

If you have ideas or personal experiences you’d like to share, or if there’s a specific topic you’d like us to cover, please reach out to [email protected]. This podcast isn’t just for history buffs; it’s for everyone who values community, diversity and the stories that unite us.

Whether you’re tuning in from across the world or from just down the street, I invite you to join me on this journey through time. Our collective histories, backgrounds and perspectives intersect in Saratoga, forming a tapestry we can all be proud of—and continue to enrich for generations to come.

Stay curious, stay engaged, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the Saratoga History Podcast.

Belal Aftab is the mayor of Saratoga.