Ravenswood Library will bring the past to life on May 16

RAVENSWOOD, W.Va. (WV News) — The past will come alive at the Ravenswood Library on Friday, May 16, when “Hands-On History” takes place from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.

After participating in some or all of the activities offered, Rachel Lavigne hopes that people will feel “inspired, curious and more connected to where they come from.”

When given the opportunity to organize a special program for the library, Lavigne, the cataloging supervisor, knew exactly what she wanted to do.

“I wanted to create something where people could feel connected to their past – whether that’s personal, local or a bigger picture,” she said. “History can seem distant, but it’s made of real lives and stories.”

Lavigne has come up with many events for everyone to enjoy.

Throughout the day, there will be activities for all ages:

Historic Skills Station: knot-tying, Morse code and paper quilting

Classic games: hoop rolling, marbles, ring toss, jacks and cornhole

Toy making: button spinner (vintage fidget)

Kids’ craft table: vintage-inspired projects led by Miss Nichole

Photography display: Some photos from the Clara Weisheit collection from The Great Bend Museum

Another unique offering will be scrapbooking, led by the museum.

“We will have mini-scrapbooks, supplies, and a photo printer so that kids can make Clara-inspired scrapbooks,” Faith Walker, museum director, said. “We hope this will inspire them to see the full exhibit.”

To kick off the day, Miss Nichole will host a historical story time at 1:30 p.m. A time for folks to share stories about their families, Ravenswood, Jackson County or anything from the past will be at 4:10 p.m. In between, at 2:10 p.m., history will truly come alive as Col. Ruby Bradley, a United States Army Nurse Corps officer, a prisoner of the Japanese in World War II, and one of the most decorated women in the United States military, shares her story.

Becky Park, who has portrayed Col. Bradley for many years, will bring her inspirational tale through History Alive! from the West Virginia Humanities Council.

With the programs and activities offered, Lavigne hopes everyone will learn one particular lesson.

“History isn’t just abstract facts; it’s all around us,” she said. “It’s in our heirlooms, our town, our family stories and even in the games our grandparents played. I hope everyone leaves with a deeper appreciation.”

For information, call the library, located at 323 Virginia Street, at 304-273-5343.