4 upcoming events with the history tag

Come visit the Ball State University Archives and Special Collections at Bracken Library, room 210 on October 16th at 6:00pm for the opening of a new exhibit honoring the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Hear about how cultural movements like the Enlightenment, the growth of print culture, and a revolutionary atmosphere influenced the Declaration's authors, then view the amazing 18th century rare books, newspapers, and original letters from several Founding Fathers that are on display, all while enjoying delicious cookies.

In 1776, a committee of five members of the Continental Congress drafted the Declaration of Independence, one of the most foundational and important political documents in the history of western society. But the Declaration did not spring from the minds of the writers out of nothing. Like any great work, it was profoundly influenced by the cultural movements of the time. The writers were inspired by a century of Enlightenment philosophy advocating reason, liberalism, and natural rights. They were also inundated with a media landscape of print information that was expanding in a way never seen before. These ingredients, along with unrest and unfair treatment, created an atmosphere of revolution — where political change actually felt possible.

Ages of Liberty seeks to explore the 18th century cultural "ages" of Revolution, Enlightenment, and Print which were all important ingredients in creating the atmosphere where the Declaration of Independence was written and signed. The exhibit features six original signed documents from American Founders Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, Robert Livingston, George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Lafayette. The Age of Revolution section also includes other revolutionary rare books and documents. The Age of Enlightenment section displays works of philosophy, medicine, and education, as well as Diderot's famous Encyclopédie. The Age of Print section showcases newspapers, magazines, novels, poetry, and more, including an original Poor Richard's Almanack, a first-edition Gulliver's Travels, and Bible leaves from the first ever printed Bibles in the American Colonies.

Starting this October, Collage with Comrades events will feature different thematic presentations and discussions that focus on anti-fascist resistance and cultural art/community!

For this Collage with Comrades on October 26th, we will be giving a short presentation on STAR (Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries) and early forms of organized LGBTQ+ resistance. Open questions and discussion will be after the presentation. This is to hopefully center a nice conversation and topic for collage!! The collage activity will be available before, during, and after the presentation.

JOIN US on October 26th to learn about revolutionary queer history and make some fun art to take home!

Supplies will be provided. Bringing your own supplies is encouraged! but not necessary.

**Collage events after the upcoming October 26th date will be hosted on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of every month.**

October 29; 3–4 p.m. | Center Building  

Cost: $10 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 13+      

Step behind the scenes into secure storage areas where mysterious, unusual, and rarely displayed artifacts wait to be rediscovered. From puzzling tools to objects with surprising purposes, each piece carries a story. Guided by the Collections team, you’ll examine real collection items up close and put your detective skills to the test. Can you determine what these objects were used for, who made them, or why they were preserved? Perfect for the curious, the clever, and anyone who loves a good puzzle, this tour invites you to uncover the secrets hidden within these delightfully obscure treasures. This tour may include standing, stairs, and exposure to loud HVAC noise. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. If you need accommodations, please notify us in advance.  

https://www.minnetrista.net/events/collections-tour-oct-29-26