The Key West Art & Historical Society Hosts Free Civil War Art Program at Fort East Martello Museum

October 17, 2023 – (KEY WEST, FL).  On Sunday, November 5, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., join the staff of the Fort East Martello Museum, located at 3501 South Roosevelt Boulevard, to explore one of the island’s Civil War-era forts and its exhibits which encompass our rich and diverse history.  Dubbed “Family Museum Day,” the program is designed to coincide with the Society’s wildly popular Community Day, a day offering free museum admission for Monroe County residents the first Sunday of each month.
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While on the property, families are encouraged to take a self-guided tour of the fort and citadel, explore the outdoor sculpture garden, and view artwork created by celebrated Keys folk artist Stanley Papio.  In addition to free admission, adults and children are welcome to explore Key West’s role in the Civil War and participate in an art project in the air-conditioned Lee Garrison Classroom.  Society instructor Deadeye Rick will share information about the cannons originally planned for the casemates at Fort East Martello and along with Education Specialist Kassandra Collett, attendees will be able to create their own paper tube cannons.

“During the 19th century, American cannon technology was constantly evolving and advancing.  So much so, that the Society’s own Fort East Martello was never completed because its walls were considered obsolete before building was concluded,” says Collett.  “We welcome all families to the museum in November to join us in creating their very own paper tube cannons using STEAM, or science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.  Families can imagine and create a paper tube cannon using various supplies such as paper tubes, cardboard, rubber bands, balloons, and popsicle sticks.”

The Family Museum Day program is free and open to the public. Registration is not required, and all supplies will be provided by the Key West Art & Historical Society.  For additional information about the program, visit kwahs.org/upcoming-events.  You can also contact Collett at 305-295-6616 x504 or [email protected].  This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture and the State of Florida, with additional support provided by The Helmerich Trust.  Your Museums.  Your Community.  It takes an Island.