Tombstones: An Historical Look at America's First Sculpture and the Messages They Reveal

Tue Oct 17, 6:30 – 7:30 pm

Hosted by Seymour Library
Details Seymour Library welcomes the historian John Cilio. John Cilio, a member of the Organization of American Historians and the Association for the Study of Connecticut History. He hopes to impart his enthusiasm on finding the hidden forces and trends from the past which underlays modern life.

Sometime concepts easily understood and widespread in one era are not in another era. One of the longest lasting symbol from the past – meant to last for eternity is the tombstone. Tombstones meant to remember and celebrate the deceased’s name, station in life, dates of birth and life, but also impart associations in symbols, shapes and texts that may be puzzling or appear out of place. Symbols, concepts and attitudes toward death change as the centuries progressed in New England. Stonecutters were local and passed the craft in the family so symbols and styles became localized. The Victorians savored sending cryptic messages but they were not alone.
Join John and learn about some of the history of America’s first sculpture and how many of the messages from the stones have been interrupted and misunderstood. Unfortunately, not all designs on tombstones can be interpreted by modern viewers.

For more information about this program please call the Library at 203 – 888-3903 or email [email protected] for more information. No registration is necessary.
Admission Free
Location Seymour Public Library
Where
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