The Nantucket Historical Association (NHA) is pleased to announce another exciting season of historic arts & crafts courses at the 1800 House.
Upcoming 2014 classes highlight the arts of woodcarving, needlework, painting, scrimshaw, letterpress printing, ceramic transferware, shell work, and much more! Several one-day workshops are also being offered, such as an “Unfinished Needlework Workshop” on June 27, and an “Advanced Shell Workshop” on July 8.
“The 1800 House has the unique distinction of offering historic art classes— many with a contemporary twist— that you won’t see anywhere else,” says Mary Lacoursiere, NHA Programs Coordinator at the 1800 House. “Most of the classes are accessible and appropriate for all skill levels. If you have no previous experience with these art forms, this is the perfect place to dive in.”
The 1800 House at 4 Mill Street was built in 1805 and donated to the NHA by Frederick Melhado in 1951. First occupied by the island’s high sheriff, who managed the Old Gaol, the 1800 House reveals the aesthetic simplicity and fine craftsmanship that characterized the Quaker-influenced houses of nineteenth-century Nantucket architecture.
Back by popular demand, the NHA 1800 House Stitching Gams will be offered every Tuesday afternoon starting on June 17 through August 26 from 2 to 4 pm in the Whaling Museum. Visitors are welcome to drop in with their needlework projects at this free, informal weekly gathering, hosted by 1800 House expert instructors. Bring your projects to work together in a comfortable and friendly environment and get some tips from other craftspeople. The group meets in the cozy Nantucket Corner room in the Whaling Museum.
For a full 2014 course description, visit www.nha.org/1800house. To register for classes, call the NHA 1800 House at (508) 228-1894. All valid NHA members qualify for special member rates for these courses. Space is limited, and full payment is due at registration. All materials and tools are included in the course fees.
