Local library partners with Daughters of the American Revolution and community artisans to bring history to life
EDENTON — In honor of America’s Semiquincentennial, Shepard Pruden Memorial Library has unveiled a stunning Betsy Ross window display, recreating the iconic scene of Betsy Ross sewing the nation’s first flag as George Washington looks on.
The display is the fourth historical installation this year to feature American Girl dolls, a creative initiative introduced by Library Assistant Erica Newman since joining the library team last year. “What better way to celebrate America’s 250th than by honoring the creation of our first flag?” said Newman.
A gallery of photos appears at the end of this story.
To bring the project to life, the library partnered with local members of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) — Reva Hinson, Anne Rowe, Lisa Laws, Christy Hinson, and Bonnie Henn. The collaboration extends beyond the display: the DAR members will also perform a Betsy Ross skit at the Colonial Festival hosted by the library this September.
The display also benefited from the generosity of two community contributors. Helen’s Alterations donated their time and talent to create George Washington’s period-accurate costume, while Lucas Belton of Rustic Reclaimed hand-painted the colonial cabinet featured in the scene.
The Betsy Ross window display will remain up through September, giving the entire community ample time to enjoy it. It can be viewed from the library’s newly renovated garden area.
“We truly appreciate all of the time, talent, and hard work that everyone contributed to help bring this display to life,” said Newman. “We hope the community enjoys it as much as we enjoyed creating it.”
For more information, contact Shepard Pruden Memorial Library.
Gallery — click to enlarge
