Museum Society Bus Trip- New Harmony, IN

Our new travel opportunity brings us greater awareness of the good earth where we live and the people who sought freedom to thrive, worship and build community. Plus, it harkens us to the earliest days of the Illinois State Museum story!

Join members of our Museum Society as we visit two communities to witness a collage of heritage buildings made new and meet people who tell tales of the ideals and realities of founding families. We'll visit Lyles Station, one of the earliest African-American communities in our country, and New Harmony, a town founded as a utopia.

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SPECIAL ARRANGED VISITS

Two artisans who normally require individual appointments have agreed to welcome some of our guests in small groups to tour their studios and learn about their work. There is no fee for those who elect to participate in these activities; however, there may be items for sale, and you must also register in advance since enrollments are limited in number.

* Docey Lewis Studio/Design Bank 505: Docey is a textile designer/producer who has worked with companies in more than 20 countries) and offers textiles made of handmade paper, metal sheets, real and faux leather, felt, paint, natural pigments, and other fabrics. PHOTO of Docey and group watching her on DesignBank505 website under Studio, then About Docey.

Note: Not handicapped accessible — studio spaces are on mezzanine and second floor with several stairs and a single railing.

• Thursday afternoon at 1:45 p.m. (maximum of 12, no fee)
• Friday morning 10:45 a.m. (maximum of 12, no fee)

* Curt Schmitt Studio (cabinetry and fine furniture): Curt creates original designs as well as traditional styles, accepting custom orders.His work is rooted in the natural qualities of wood: grain, color, and texture. This studio is located in a small converted barn workshop which is handicapped accessible. PHOTO of Bench on VisitNew Harmony website under Artisans.

Note: The studio is a short distance from town and we recommend those who sign up work together as groups to rent your own golf cart to go there.

• Thursday afternoon at 2:30 p.m. (maximum of 14, no fee)
• Friday morning at 10:30 a.m. (maximum of 14, no fee)

ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS

If you would like an extra activity, you may choose one of the three items listed below, each beginning at 7 p.m. on Thursday evening, 9/21/23:

(Limited enrollments for each; suggested donations paid with the first two and fee for tour as listed)

* The New Harmony Clay Project - Artist in Residency Event (max. 20, suggested donations paid onsite)

* Music Jam at Elliot’s Farmhouse (max. 25, suggested donations paid onsite)

* Haunted New Harmony Tour (max. 16, Fee of $20 paid onsite )