Lower East Side History Month
May is Lower East Side History Month, which is an annual celebration of the rich and diverse history of the Lower East Side. Conceived by LES-based arts and community groups, LES History Month is an umbrella for a variety of public events, exhibits, tours, and learning opportunities — aiming to connect our present to our past, exploring how our history can inform and inspire our future.
The Merchant’s House Museum will be celebrating the Lower East Side History Month with the following events! Don’t miss out!
Merchant’s House Museum 80th Anniversary Celebration
Date: Wednesday, May 11, 1 to 4 p.m.
Admission: 50 cents, as it was in 1936.
On May 11, 1936, the Merchant’s House Museum opened its doors to the public for the first time. Join them as they celebrate 80 years as a museum with tours of the house and publication of Miracle on Fourth Street: Saving an Old Merchant’s House, by Mary. L. Knapp. Books will be available for purchase.
The Tredwells at Home, Living History: Secrets of a Lady’s Toilette – Fashion and Beauty
Date: Saturday, May 21, Noon to 4 p.m.
Tickets: Free with admission
It’s 1858 and 25-year-old Tredwell daughter Julia is in her mother’s bedroom getting ready for an evening at the theatre. In the 19th century, the theatre was a fashionable society event where women could see what others were wearing and be seen themselves, so she must dress her best. From silk sleeves and satin slippers to perfumed soaps and floral-scented skin powder, no detail is too small. How does she dress her hair? Are corsets comfortable? How many layers does it take to make the fashionable crinoline silhouette? Learn about Julia’s clothes, her cosmetics, and just how much work it takes to be well-dressed in 19thcentury New York.
Open Mic Nite in the Parlor
Date: Friday, May 27th, 6:30 p.m.
Admission: $10, Free for members
In the 19th century, literary salons gathered great thinkers, artists, and writers under one roof for a night of socialization and “improving conversation.” In that same spirit, the Merchant’s House celebrates the works of today’s new writers, performance artists, and musicians. Come to share your work or simply enjoy. Wine & light refreshments will be served. If you’d like to perform, bring no more than 5 minutes of material; sign-up available upon entry.
*See the full Calendar of Events.
