The Rhode Island Historical Society, the state's oldest and only statewide historical organization, is dedicated to honoring, interpreting and sharing Rhode Island's past to enrich the present and inspire the future. Founded in 1822, the RIHS is an advocate for history as a means to develop empathy and 21st -century skills, using its historical materials and knowledge to explore topics of timeless relevance and public interest. As a Smithsonian Affiliate, it is dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible public programming and educational opportunities for all Rhode Islanders through its four sites: the John Brown House Museum, the Museum of Work & Culture, the Mary Elizabeth Robinson Research Center and the Aldrich House.
Description
Join the Rhode Island Historical Society on Wednesday, April 15th, at 12:30 pm for the fourth installment of Liberty at Lunchtime, a monthly virtual series highlighting partners in the other 13 original colonies. The series continues with a presentation from Andrew Rowand, Curator & Site Administrator for Connecticut's Eric Sloane Museum
Nestled in scenic Kent, Connecticut, this isn’t just any museum—it’s a celebration of Eric Sloane: an artist, author, collector, and storyteller who chronicled early America throughout the 20th century. The museum houses original artworks, an extensive collection of antique tools, and endless stories that make you want to roll up your sleeves and try your hand at old-school crafts and trades. Discover how Sloane’s love for all things Americana continues to inspire fresh ideas and keep the museum buzzing with new energy.
Andrew Rowand is a public historian specializing in the practices and cultural impacts of 18th- and 19th-century American trades and crafts. He is the Curator and Site Administrator of the Eric Sloane Museum in Kent, Connecticut, and also serves as a Director of the Early American Industries Association and TradesUp. A dedicated student and avid supporter of all historic trades and crafts, Andrew is a practicing shoemaker and may even be found working aboard tall ships in his spare time. He and his wife Lara are thrilled to be living in New England in a small timber-framed farmhouse with their two pups and cat. Andrew is honored to be a steward of the Eric Sloane Museum, one of Connecticut’s many valuable cultural resources.
The Liberty at Lunchtime series is presented by Amica Insurance.
Date & Time
Wed, Apr 15, 2026 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM