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New York State History | 19th Century America | Women's Studies

Upcoming Appearances by Mary Jeanne Bialas:

Trunks and Travel: A 19th Century Journey in New York State

A lecture by Mary Jeanne Bialas

The audience is part of the program in this lecture, which brings to life the customs, sights, and sounds of travel in late-19th-century New York State. Exploring the preparations of a wealthy Victorian industrialist and his wife as they get ready to travel, participants learn about transportation modes, rules and etiquette of the road, proper attire, and the era's social expectations. Trunks and satchels are packed and ready to go, filled with antique and vintage undergarments, outer-garments, shoes, and valuable accessories for a successful trip to anywhere in 1890. (There's no such thing as packing lightly for a wealthy Victorian.) As the trip progresses, hardships and joys become the main focus. Rather than being told that life was different back then, the audience experiences it firsthand, by unpacking the trunks and other luggage, and comparing the perceived needs and standards of the Victorian era to today’s travel customs. This program includes an exhibit of post-Civil War travel outer garments and accessories for men, women, and children. Digital projection enables large-scale presentation of graphics and photos of transportation and travelers.

This lecture is available from November 1, 2008 to January 1, 2012

Can be tailored to a high school audience

Setup Needed

  • Stereo equipment required
  • Digital Projector/Screen
  • DVD Player

Ms. Mary Jeanne Bialas

Director, Program Specialist/Designer, Presenter, Victorian Whispers

As director of Victorian Whispers, an educational program development agency, Mary Jeanne Bialas has made NY State history come alive for audiences of all ages. A graduate of SUNY Potsdam (BA English) holding graduate degrees, including a Masters and CAS in Educational Administration from SUNY Oswego, she completed further graduate work at Utica College of Syracuse University. As a secondary English/Drama instructor for 34 years, she developed extensive living history programs solidifying history's place in American and British literature. Using her background in costume design and her love for antique clothing, she has designed traveling multi-media exhibits adding to her vision of 19th century life. New programs focus on the impact of Victorian society and politics upon the fashions, gender roles, education, travel and transportation, social expectations, and life in general during the 1800's.

Mary Jeanne maintains an extensive collaborative network with Lorenzo State Historic Site, the Genesee Valley Council on the Arts and other county historical societies, libraries, schools, history museums and state historic venues. It is for these organizations that she has developed programs (lectures, audience inter-active experiences, and exhibits ) about New York State history including the rich settlement years of the 19th century.

Telephone: (315) 363-0277
Website: www.thevictorianwhispers.com
Address: Sherrill, NY  13461
Oneida County
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