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HEARTHSIDE HOUSE MUSEUM NEWSLETTER
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"The House That Love Built" Vol. 9, Issue 6 June 2016
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You sure can say that things are buzzing around Hearthside! And not just the bees around the flowers in bloom.....our event calendar has been full and visitor activity has been high. Workmen are on the scene every day working against the clock to finish up the porch roof restoration before July 1st. Volunteers have been helping out with setting up and taking down for all these events and special event rentals we've hosted. And lots of meetings have been taking place in preparation for our biggest event yet....The Decade That Roared: A 1920s Rhode Island Experience. It's just 21 days away!
This event is really an exciting and wonderful opportunity for us to explore new topics in a whole new era we haven't ventured into before. It's also a chance to bring in a whole new audience; there's clearly a 1920s following who are already lining up to come for the day. It's not just the younger generation, but there is great appeal to an older crowd as well. Most of our parents or grandparents were born then, and so the memories are somewhat more recent. Certainly, it will be a great way to learn some significant history about that era and that of Rhode Island's past, and a most memorable day. I think you'll be surprised by what you see.
I have to make a pitch for volunteer help. While it may seem that there is an army behind all these efforts, that is simply not the case. It is all being done by a handful of very dedicated and hard working individuals. We've been able to accomplish a great deal, but like most nonprofits, there can never be enough volunteers. Many of our volunteers have been at this for 15 years now! And we look to being able to lessen the load by having many more hands to help.
So if you've got some time to give, no matter how little, we'd appreciate your support. And no time is more important than right now! We're looking for dozens of volunteers to help with The Decade That Roared. See the article below for more information and to sign up.
Our volunteers are passionate, fun-loving, and nice to work with. Those in the community, and everyone who comes to Hearthside, recognizes the tremendous effort that it takes to keep this museum filled with exciting programs, and they are very appreciative of the efforts by our volunteers. Knowing this, and how much an impact you can have, make this a worthwhile and rewarding experience.
Oh, and in the midst of this exciting period, we have been designing a new website! Watch for the announcement of its launch coming soon. In the meantime, be sure to connect with us on Facebook for all the latest news and happenings.
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Sat., July 16 The Decade That Roared: A 1920s RI Experience 11-4 pm
Sat. July 16* Bootlegger's Ball - 15th Anniversary Celebration of the Friends of Hearthside 5-9:30 pm
Sat. Aug. 6* American Girl Doll Garden Party 12 & 2:30 pm
Sun. Aug. 14 Tour Day & Exhibit 1-4 pm
* Advance ticket purchase only.
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| THE DECADE THAT ROARED: A 1920s Rhode Island Experience Saturday, July 16th |
The 1920s come to life at Hearthside on Saturday, July 16th as we proudly present
The Decade That Roared: A 1920s Rhode Island Experience.
While all the familiar aspects of the 20s will be present, such as jazz, glamour, flappers, vaudeville acts, gorgeous fashions, live radio and speakeasies, the exhibit will have a more serious note too. Hearthside will offer a deeper insight into the complexities of a post-war America that was transforming into a modern society, with rapidly changing values coming out of the Victorian age.
Throughout the day from 11 a.m.- 4 p.m., a main tent on the grounds will feature performances, and a secondary tent on the front lawn will offer opportunities for additional presentations. The line up is quite impressive, so you'll want to plan to come and spend the day to see it all. There'll be food for purchase, ice cream cones to help beat the heat, tents to get out of the sun, and plenty of things to see, be entertained, and most importantly to learn about this fascinating decade and especially its impact in Rhode Island.
A special issue of this newsletter will go out the week before with a detailed agenda for the day so you can plan your day. But, here's a preview of the highlights:
Rose Weaver, renowned actress and vocalist, will tell the story of the Harlem Renaissance through song and words.
Lloyd Kaplan, longtime jazz musician and authority on jazz will give a presentation on the history of jazz, and sign his book, "Who's Who in Rhode Island Jazz"
The Aristocats jazz quartet, featuring Lloyd Kaplan, will perform and lead the audience in sing alongs of famous 20s tunes
Circus Dynamics will perform a vaudeville show, much like what was done in the 20s
Providence Swings will give demonstrations of 1920s era dances such as the Charleston
The Tropigals from Chifferobe will give lively dance numbers from the era
An old-time radio broadcast, in a mock radio station (WJAR) will be given by announcer Dave Kane
Cinemaworld will provide film clips of the history of movies
Award winning
LuLu Locks and her talented team from Suite Tarts will give makeup and hair demonstrations and even provide vintage makeup to our guests, with an appointment set up ahead of time.....perfect for getting dolled up for the evening Bootlegger's Ball
Vintage fashions galore on the grounds worn by our interpreters and guests
Ren Antonowicz, owner of Nostalgia, will give a presentation about the styles of the time.
Vendor tents to purchase vintage fashions and accessories
Antique cars from the era
An authentic
Still in a
Speakeasy set up (no alcohol till evening event)
Photo booth for "selfies"
Inside the house, see exhibits of
antique radios
and radio components, many made right here in RI. See
silent movie clips
, shot in Providence and throughout the state. Learn about Providence's position as a leader in the country in many areas, such as jewelry manufacturing and see some examples of fine handcrafted jewelry. Look at the 1920s through the eyes of a typical family and learn what the
burning issues of the day
were....sometimes things don't change!
Local newspapers highlight the shows, stores, and stories that dominated the media then.
A "voting booth," with a ballot of RI candidates from 1924, will give women especially a chance to cast their vote.
There's so much to fit into a day....so don't miss a minute of it! Admission is paid at the gate: $12; $6 for youth under 14.
Hours are from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
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BOOTLEGGER'S BALL & SPEAKEASY
TO CELEBRATE 15TH ANNIVERSARY
FRIENDS OF HEARTHSIDE
JULY 16th
Tickets Now on Sale!
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On June 6, 1922 Providence heralded the opening of The Biltmore Hotel. It was quite the social scene, sporting six restaurants! Paying tribute to one of the more popular restaurant/clubs at the Biltmore, Hearthside is re-creating the "Bacchante Room" for its evening Bootlegger's Ball with all the glitz and glamour of a 20s celebration, and just the right atmosphere for our
15th Anniversary celebration!
The evening starts at
5:00 p.m
. for ticket holders at the
Speakeasy
behind Hearthside. Here you will need the secret word to get in. Once inside, the copper still (from our collection) will dominate the space where the liquor will flow. Of course, cocktails were just coming into vogue so we will have two specialty cocktails being served right out of that era. Thanks to
Mendon Wines
for arranging for the donation of liquor, and for explaining to our guests how the still operated.
Narragansett Beer
will be on hand for those not part of the cocktail culture. Soft drinks also on tap. As you enjoy your cocktail and learn about prohibition, rum runners, and speakeasies, the cigarette girls will try to tempt you to buy cigarettes (candy sticks). You must have at least one to put into that long holder which is more of a fashion statement than an implement to smoke. If you want a bite to eat before the evening begins, grab a delicious gourmet grilled cheese sandwich from .....the award winning food truck. After all, grilled cheese was invented in the 1920s!
Before hitting the dance floor, instructors from Providence Swings will provide essential lessons in the Charleston. Then at 6:30, the sounds of jazz from the 20s will fill the air as Jessy Carolina and the Hot Mess, a popular New York City based jazz band, hit the stage, complete with lead vocalist Jessy playing the washboard. Her voice is described as sounding as though it is coming out of a scratchy old Victrola. The night will be hopping and sure to be the "Bees Knees." So don't delay, get your ticket today. Just click here to purchase: The Decade That Roared: Bootlegger's Ball & Speakeasy Or, call Hearthside at 726-0597 to order. Cost is $40 per person. Only 150 tickets will be sold due to limited space. |
| THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS |
| Thanks to the generosity of so many businesses throughout our community for making The Decade That Roared possible! We encourage you to patronize our partners in this venture, and please say THANK YOU to them. They recognize the importance of preserving our history! Our major supporters:      
With additional support from:
Special thanks also to these supporters:
Retromedia,
Dupois Oil,
Henry Gonsalves Company, Kirkbrae Properties,
Ballard's Farm,
Lincoln Animal Hospital, Conklin Limestone, and Hercules Pizzaworks.
And to a whole host of donors and advertisers who are also making a difference with their support!
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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR 20s EVENT
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Want to be a part of something BIG? Why not consider volunteering some of your time on Saturday, July 16th at The Decade That Roared event! Putting on such a major spectacle will require many hands to make it all run smoothly. With your help, even if it is just for a few
hours, can make a real difference for our visitors' experience...and for Hearthside.
While we would welcome your help for the whole day, we realize that may be too much to ask. Therefore, we have 3 and 4 hour shifts, depending upon the task and availability of volunteers. Hours start at 7 a.m. and run throughout the day till closing. Looking to be help out a worthy cause, or maybe to fulfill community service hours for school, this is a great opportunity
on a nice summer day. Pass the word on to friends, relatives, neighbors and colleagues!
Interested volunteers may contact
Christine Maino to sign up or with any questions. Thank you for any help you can give!
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| We recently received word on two successful grant applications. The first was from Altria Group, Inc. (parent company of Phillip Morris) with a $2,000 grant toward the porch roof repairs. Thanks to board member Rick Rosati for the introduction! This was a big boost toward this major project, which required us to raise $45,000. We are thrilled that the RI Council for the Humanities has awarded Hearthside with a $2,000 mini grant during their recent round of applications. This grant is to fund the production of all the informative panels for our The Decade That Roared exhibit which will be displayed throughout the house. It is through their help, and that of our volunteer Seth Hamilton, that we are able to create such attractive panels that educate and stimulate further thought about important aspects of our heritage. |
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RAFFLE TO BENEFIT HEARTHSIDE
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During the 1920s, Florida was being discovered as a paradise to build homes and to travel to for vacation. In fact, vacations were just coming to be during the 20s with newfound ways of transportation, reduced work weeks, and the institution of "time off." What better prize to offer during our
Decade That Roared event than a vacation in Florida!
Enjoy a week's stay at a fully-equipped luxury home in
The Villages located in central Florida. Comes with everything needed to enjoy your vacation, including a personal golf cart and full resident privileges. This package is perfect for couples, or a family of four.
The renowned Villages is located in the heart of sunny Florida, convenient to all famous tourist attractions. Known as "Florida's Friendliest Hometown," the Villages offers a wide array of activities including golf, shopping, dining, and entertainment which are just a golf cart ride away. Also:
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One Hour Away from Disney, Universal Studios and the Orlando Airport
- Thirty-nine 9-hole golf courses plus swimming pools & tennis courts
- Twelve 27-hole country clubs with restaurants
- Three town squares offering live entertainment and dancing every night
- Large shopping areas with popular stores and restaurants
- More than 1000 clubs ranging from cards to billiards and knitting
Only
250 tickets will be sold, giving all ticket holders a very good chance at winning. The raffle winner will be announced during the
Bootlegger's Ball, along with winners of the many
 different raffle baskets being offered as well as the silent auction. Winner need not be present...you will be notified. Tickets for the Florida Raffle are available for purchase now through this article, or if you have problems with linking to the payment page, simply drop a check in the mail, and I'll be happy to send your raffle stubs to you. Check is made payable to Friends of Hearthside, 757 Great Road, Lincoln, RI 02865.
Tickets are $10 each or 5 for $20.
Special thanks to Dana & Janet Heberlein for donating this prize!
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| GARDEN PARTY FOR GIRLS & THEIR DOLLS Saturday, August 6th |
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The
American Girl Doll Garden Party brings an afternoon of old-fashioned fun to young girls
ages 5-10 on
Saturday, August 6th.
Girls and their dolls, accompanied with an adult, will learn the l
anguage of flowers, enjoy
lemonade and sweet treats, create a craft from
pressed flowers, and play
lawn games just like young girls growing up at the turn of the century would do. A special display of the original Samantha doll, the 1904 character, and her summertime accessories is always a highlight of the day.
Take a
tour of the museum and see the displays of the 1920s Decade That Roared exhibit. There will be prizes and raffles, and a visit to the Gift Shop always hold special treats for the dolls and moms too.
Two seatings offered:
12 noon or 2:30 p.m.
Tickets to members go on sale July 1, and to the general public on
July 6th. General price is $27 for the adult/child pair; $17 for additional child, with discounted member pricing at $25 and $15. Because of limited seating under the tent, we ask that you kindly limit adult attendance to allow ample space for the many girls who want to attend. Reserve tickets by calling Hearthside at 726-0597.
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SWEET, AND OH SO CUTE! GIRLS, THEIR DOLLS & TEA
JUNE 4-5 |
Our largest crowd ever of young girls and their American Girl Dolls, along with mom, grandma, and even grandpa, converged on Hearthside for the Annual American Girl Doll Tea Party. Every seat was filled for all four seatings both days, meaning 240 got to enjoy this special time. It was a tremendous success and lots of happy memories were made. And hopefully some lessons in manners that won't soon be forgotten. Photos by Susan Gonsalves
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| VINTAGE WEDDING EXHIBIT CELEBRATES TRADITIONS |
Less than a week after the American Girl Doll Tea, we hosted a new exhibit of
Vintage Wedding Fashions. Thanks to
Estelle Barada
for taking the lead and organizing the exhibit in such a short time period. It was very well attended and was featured in the
Providence Journal
as one of the top 5 things to do the weekend of June 11-12.
Rhode Island Monthly
also featured a blog about the exhibit the day before. We appreciate these boosts of publicity! Special thanks to
Diane Adam
for the lovely display of her aunt's wedding gown,
Beverly Cournoyer
for her grandmother's, and to
Carolyn Sloat
and
Audrey Godin
for donating their ancestors wedding gowns, as well as their own, to Hearthside's collections. The informational panels were created by RIC student Nat
Cokely.
We now have an exhibit which may return again next June! Photos by David Cruz.
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| A full Victorian wedding outfit with full veil was representative of the first white wedding gowns made popular by Queen Victoria. |
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| Roger and Jean Rainville loaned their mother's 1950s satin wedding dress, which is volunteer Diane Adam's aunt. |
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Wedding dresses belonging to sisters Audrey Godin and Carolyn Sloat. Audrey's dress was a replica of the one worn by her grandmother, Esther Meader Binyon in 1916. Carolyn was married in a satin dress in 1957 that had been worn by her aunt, Joyce Stochton-Binyon in 1950.
Audrey and Carolyn are the great,great granddaughters of Daniel & Louisa Meader who owned Hearthside in 1890.
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Visitors were surprised to see a brown plaid taffeta dress that had been a wedding dress for the marriage of Josephine Rogers Elliott to Frank Meader, son of Daniel & Louisa Meader in 1886. The Meader family lived at Hearthside from 1890 to 1901.
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Estelle Barada was in her glory among all the vintage dresses on display.
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| Antique wedding shoes help illustrate the story about the tradition of stealing the bride's wedding slippers. |
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Visitors enjoyed the more familiar white satin wedding dress and tuxedo from the 1950s.
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The dining room table was set for a formal reception. Place settings of antique china were donated by Mary McKenna, the silverware by Christopher Willigan, and the water goblets by Charles Cox, all of which are now in our collections.
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| As they say, there's always something happening at Hearthside...come join us this summer!
Sincerely,
Kathy Hartley
Founder, President & CEO
Friends of Hearthside, Inc.
The mission of the Friends of Hearthside, Inc. is to preserve, protect, promote, and interpret the heritage of the Hearthside Homestead (b.1810) and the Great Road Historic District through living history programs and events.
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