March has come and gone, and it seems spring is upon us, which also means April showers will be settling in. The Vietnam Appreciation Program was a fantastic way to end the month of March. Over 170 people joined in honoring the veterans of the era. The evening featured speakers and moving exhibits tied to the conflict. The Society would like to thank all those involved, notably Graystone Presbyterian Church for providing additional parking and to Hilltop Baptist Church for providing the shuttle service for the evening. The exhibit featuring the names of those who were killed in action during the Vietnam War will remain on display at the museum until shortly after Memorial Day.
To celebrate the contributions of women in the United States, the Historical Society will have a display highlighting one extraordinary woman in Indiana County history - Jane Leonard. Often considered the embodiment of the Indiana State Normal School, Leonard fostered a place of education and warmth for students, faculty, and members of the community. "Remembering Aunt Jane" will detail her long life, from her early days as a teacher, to her retirement from the Normal School, and the impact she had on those who were lucky enough to meet her. Visitors to the museum can view this display now through the middle of May.
Coming up later this month visitors can learn about one of Indiana County's early settlements - Newport. On Thursday April 21 at 6:30 p.m., join Dr. Ben Ford from the Department of Anthropology at IUP, as he discusses recent archaeological expeditions at the site of the former town of Newport. This event is free to attend and will delve into the history of the location, as well as the work performed by the department over the course of two summers at the site. The program committee requests that you RSVP to the event for planning purposes.
On April 23, join Silas and Clara Clark as they give guided tours of the Clark House. Come learn about the lives of Mr. and Mrs. Clark and their family and life during the Victorian Era. This month's tour will feature the theme of Easter 1875. Tickets are $10 with a discount for members, it is recommended that you purchase tickets in advance, as space is limited.
Coming up in May is the first Victorian Ladies' Tea of the year on Saturday May 14 starting at 2:00 p.m. Attendees will dine on pastries and sip tea while enjoying "Battle of the Sexes By Way of Broadway" by Mary Jo Bowes, which features multiple acts created from a number of classical Broadway musical scenes. Tickets are currently on sale for $25 with a discount for Society members. This event sells out quickly so purchase your ticket in advance to secure your seat.
Whether you are in the mood for something educational or exquisite, the Society has an event for you. The coming months will witness the return of popular annual events and the addition of some new programs that are sure to be new favorites. Keep an eye on our social media and website for upcoming details and we hope you can join the Society as it explores the many events and themes of Indiana County history.