1/16/03
Set your sights on the Cultural Center as the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History continues its Free Family Fun Day series on Saturday, Jan. 25, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the State Capitol Complex in Charleston. Hands-on activities are geared for children; however, visitors of all ages are invited to discover something new by participating in the free event.
Participants will gather on the stage in the West Virginia State Theater to begin their exploration of West Virginia’s government. Kids can learn about all three branches of government and take an in-depth look at the story of the state’s two capital cities and six capitol buildings in its 140-year history. They also can build a wooden paddle boat similar to those used to move the capitol back and forth between Wheeling and Charleston.
In addition, visitors can take a tour of the State Capitol building, including the House and Senate Chambers where bills are voted into laws. The tours will begin at 11 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. Kids also will learn the steps involved in the bill-making process. Budding politicians can create their own campaign slogan and make a campaign poster for their legislative run.
Rounding out the day’s activities, participants can visit the exhibit First Ladies of West Virginia, located in the south wing of the Balcony Gallery. The display examines the evolving role of West Virginia’s first ladies and features the very popular ceramic doll collection created by Edna Henderson. The exhibit includes photos of most of the first ladies, fine china and silver used in the Governor’s Mansion and elegant dresses worn by First Ladies Alma Morgan (1920s), Hovah Underwood (1957), Opal Barron (1961) and Mary Alice Smith (1965).
Free Family Fun Day is part of the Division’s ongoing educational programming. For more information about Free Family Fun Day, contact Bil Lepp, education coordinator for the Division at (304) 558-0220, ext. 131.
The West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History, an agency of the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History, brings together the state’s past, present and future through programs and services in the areas of archives and history, the arts, historic preservation and museums. The Cultural Center is West Virginia’s official showcase for the arts. Visit the Division’s website at www.wvculture.org for more information about programs of the Division. The Department of Arts, Culture and History is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
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Ginny Painter
Director of Public Information
West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History
The Cultural Center
1900 Kanawha Boulevard, East
Charleston, WV 25305-0300
Phone (304) 558-0220
Fax (304) 558-2779
ginny.painter@wvculture.org