Here at the RIHS, we’re working on a year of interpretive programming built around the theme “Rhode Island at War,” selected in part because this year is the bicentennial of the War of 1812, and a sesquicentennial of a Civil War year.
In recognition of this theme, we have updated our popular Squirrel Book Bag, and accoutered him with canteen, shoes, hat and musket appropriate for service with a Continental Regiment. The squirrel himself is drawn from the carved squirrel that perches atop a pedestal above the chimney breast in the Southwest Parlor of the John Brown House Museum (the room with squirrels in the wall paper).
Perhaps the squirrel a little cheeky, and yes, we are nuts about history, but the theme is serious, and we’re looking forward to lectures, panel discussions, exhibitions, and other exciting programs that examine Rhode Island’s experience in war, and of war, from many perspectives.
Bags are $8 at the RIHS Library and at the John Brown House Museum. All proceeds will benefit the collections and programs of the RIHS. A very limited number of the original, Reading Squirrel bag are still available, but call (401) 273-8107 x 12 to confirm availability.
~Kirsten Hammerstrom, Director of Collections
