‘Shades of Stockbridge’ will return to the Stockbridge Library

STOCKBRIDGE, MA – On Saturday, October 17, between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., the Stockbridge Library Historical Collection will host an event called ‘Shades of Stockbridge.’ During the evening, ‘spirits’ of Stockbridge past will roam around the library and mingle with visitors who may either eavesdrop or speak with them.

These spirits, or shades, represented by area residents, range from Ephraim Williams, one of the original founders of the town; Georgiana Allen, daughter of Harriet Beecher Stowe; Cyrus Field, who laid the transatlantic cable; Nathan Jackson, the founder of the Stockbridge Library and early Williams College benefactor; Catharine Sedgwick, one of the first female American authors to be recognized internationally; Mark Hopkins, President of Williams College, H. Augustus Lukeman, sculptor of Stone Mountain, GA and the Soldiers Monument in Pittsfield; Emily Tuckerman, an early summer resident; and others. They represent several eras, from 1700 to 1920, and they can talk about the era of the founding of Stockbridge until the early 1900’s. They will reminisce and also give their impressions, some favorable, some not, about Stockbridge today.

The Gentleman Burglar, a genuine Stockbridge character in the late 1800’s, sometimes shows up at these events as well.

The Victorian term ‘shade’ means spirit, explained Barbara Allen, curator of the Historical Collection. She sees the event as a fun way to learn local history, as well as being entertaining.

A $5 donation is requested. No reservation is required. For more information, call 298-5501.