'Fireside Chats’ lecture series returns to Compass Inn Museum

A new season for the Ligonier Valley Historical Society and Compass Inn Museum kicks off with the “Fireside Chats” lecture series at the historic inn and tavern located on Route 30 in Laughlintown.

“I am excited to be a part of the ‘Fireside Chats’ lecture series this year,” says Kacey Wees, program and communications coordinator for the Ligonier Valley Historical Society and Compass Inn Museum. “The diverse line-up of topics and speakers allows everyone to find something they are interested in learning more about.”

On March 13, Wees will present “From Cricket to Baseball: The Great American Pastime.” She will discuss early bat-and-ball games, the establishment of unique rules and customs around cricket and baseball, and the cultural exchanges and historical moments that shaped both sports.

On March 27, Emily Barth, curator of the McCarl Coverlet Gallery at Saint Vincent College, will give a crash course in the history and significance of 19th century handwoven bed coverlets in her lecture, “The Coverlets of Compass Inn: Westmoreland County & Beyond,” highlighting the collection at Compass Inn. She will how coverlets were made, who made them, and how they fit into the fabric of society during their peak of popularity from 1830 to 1860.

On April 10, local archer Scott Craig will present “Archery through the Ages: From Hunting to Warfare to Sporting.” he will addresses archery throughout its 10,000 years of existence, from bows replacing spears in hunting, to archery as a sport in the Victorian Era.

Chats are held from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost to attend is $16 when purchased in the online presale, or $20 at the door on the day of the event. Due to limited space in the common room, walk-in availability is not guaranteed. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.compassinn.org/eventcalendar.