Children's Magic Lantern Show & Optical Toy Making Activity

A demonstration of the magic lantern, a projector using images painted on glass. The magic lantern was invented in the 17th century, and by the 19th century had become a widely practiced form of popular entertainment. Professional lanterns were found in lecture halls and theaters, while German toy makers created children's lanterns for use in the home. Using a toy lantern Dawn Elliott and Joel Schlemowitz will present a children's program, followed by hands-on activities including hand-coloring reproduction lantern slides, and learning more about these intriguing early optical devices. Reservations required: MagicLanternShow.Eventbrite.com Cost: $5 per child ($12 for family of 3 children), accompanying adults are free; $8/person for unaccompanied adults. This program is presented by the Friends of Mills at Staatsburgh, with the generous assistance of The Pomeroy Fund for History.