2/19/03
The West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History will celebrate Black History Month when it continues its Free Family Fun Day series on Saturday, Feb. 22, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Cultural Center, 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 in the Great Hall to begin their exploration of African-American history in West Virginia. Visitors can research the lives of famous black West Virginians by using the Division’s Archives and History website on a computer.
They also can find out about the operation of the Underground Railroad in the state and learn about the possible use of quilts patterned with significant symbols which were hung in windows to help aid those who were trying to escape slavery. Kids can make their own quilted square from felt, using patterns similar to those made by participants in the Underground Railroad.
In addition, visitors can make commemorative postage stamps of famous African-Americans or special moments or places in West Virginia’s history.
Because of the nature of the activities, children should wear play clothes. Kids must be accompanied by an adult.
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 Cultural Center is open to visitors from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.
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