What's in the Basement?
What's in the Basement?
Berkshire Museum
Explore Berkshire Museum's diverse collection and the many stories that stem from each item in a series of rich and informative segments with host Craig Langlois.
Responsibility Behind The Lens: How Abraham Lincoln's Photographer Changed the Perception of War
What role does a photographer play in documenting wars or protests? Is it okay to stage a scene in order to present a clear, bold perspective? A photograph of Abraham Lincoln from our collection inspires a unique train of thought on recreating historical moments.
Jul 1, 2020
4 min
The Story Of Berkshire Museum
For over a hundred years, the Berkshire Museum has been an evolving community resource for the city of Pittsfield. Who were the key players in its early days and what impact did they have on both the physical building and the ideas it permeated?
Jun 24, 2020
8 min
Balsamarium and Hygiene in Ancient Rome
In ancient Rome, regular visits to the bathhouse were hugely important and everyone was equipped their balsamarium - like this one! Dating back to between 1st and 4th century CE, this glass vessel was used to hold perfumes or oils in Roman culture.
Jun 17, 2020
7 min
Massachusetts Turtles: Snapping Turtle, Eastern Box Turtle, and Northern Red Belly Cooter
What kinds of turtles live in Massachusetts? This episode examines the habitats, behavior, and protection of three turtle species found in our Aquarium: the snapping turtle, eastern box turtle, and northern red belly cooter.
Jun 9, 2020
8 min
How a Meteorite Inspired Glass Artist Josh Simpson
Our 143lb watermelon-shaped meteorite from Canyon Diablo in Arizona sparks a conversation on space, chemistry, and tektite art with guest and glassblowing expert Josh Simpson.
Jun 3, 2020
17 min
24. Double Date Delayed: A Photograph by Isabel Bishop
Isabel Bishop's etching Double Date Delayed (1948) exemplifies her style as a printmaker by capturing a slice of life in early twentieth century Manhattan. Educational Specialist Emma joins Craig to unpack this piece and discuss Bishop's boundary-pushing artistic choices.
May 21, 2020
5 min
23. The Sawfish Rostrum with Kelcee Smith
Kelcee L. Smith lends her expertise on the endangered sawfish species as she and Craig examine a rostrum from the museum's collection. Kelcee is a Biologist and PhD student at Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge.
May 18, 2020
10 min
22: The Penny Farthing Bicycle
Before bikes we had penny farthing bicycles! How were they different and where did their name come from? Listen to find out!
May 11, 2020
6 min
21: Roundhouse Photograph
Over 150 years ago, trains changed the Berkshires for the better, making it a hub of trade and travel. A photograph of an old railway roundhouse gets Peter and Craig discussing the evolution of cities that comes with new technology and infrastructure.
May 8, 2020
8 min
20. The Manger: A Photograph by Gertrude Kasebier
The Manger (1899) by photography pioneer Gertrude Kasebier is one of her best-known photos and an excellent example of the Pictorialist aesthetic.
May 7, 2020
7 min
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