Gems Bucks County

The reign of Queen Victoria had a dramatic effect on the history, culture and customs of the mid-19th century. The role of Victorian women was expected to be limited to childbearing and housewife. Women were expected to live a highly restrictive life with their life centered on their husband and subsequently their children. The American Civil War occurred in the middle of Victoria’s reign; husbands, sons and brothers went off to war. Women’s roles and fashions began to change. Photography was a new invention and fashions included the hoop skirt, crinolines, and hair jewelry. Using original clothing, books, photographs, household items and artifacts this program presents a wonderful look at the culture and fashion of the era. This program explores the thoughts of the volunteer soldiers and the daily lives of women during the mid-Victorian era of the 1860’s.

October 7th marked a pivotal moment for Israeli society. The security breach and the war that followed brought a deep sense of despair, but also sparked a new wave of creativity. In this session, we will explore Israeli texts and poetry written in response to the massacre and the events that have unfolded over the past year.