FREE Talk: Railroad Stations in Rutland and Alfrecha
Don’t miss our FREE talk “Railroad Stations in Rutland and Alfrecha” Friday, June 19, 6pm at the Chaffee Art Center. Join us as Bill Badger, President of the Rutland Railroad Historical Society, talks about how the railroad was influential in helping to define and develop Rutland. This illustrated presentation will look at the Rutland depot over the years and continue south to Alfrecha, the first stop on the way to Bennington. Bring your questions as there will be a Q & A.
This is a FREE program, light refreshments will be provided. Please RSVP 802-775-0356 / [email protected].
Attendees can also explore our current Exhibit, “Art in Motion”. We are excited to collaborate with Rutland Railway Museum, Rutland Railroad Historical Society, Community Train Enthusiasts and Chaffee artist members to bring you this fun, creative Exhibit celebrating our railroad history, as well as showcasing our artists work. There are trains displayed and historical photos. Fun fact: George Thrall Chaffee who built the mansion we call our home, was a prominent figure in the train circle.
He even had a train station in Clarendon renamed for his 3 children ALice, FREderick and CHArlotte — Alfrecha Station.
There is a special gallery that features the works of one-hundred-sixty 7th and 8th grade students from Mr. VanDerKern’s Design Lab at Fair Haven Union Middle School that engaged in a hands-on stone carving unit supported by a grant from the Vermont Superintendents Association and the Vermont Handcrafters Association, with support from the West Rutland Carving Studio. Beginning with hand carving local talc and then using a Glowforge laser to engrave slate tiles, students created original works rooted in the Slate Valley’s slate heritage. Stone provided by Vermont Marble, Granite, Slate & Soapstone.
Chaffee artist members’ works are also on display and for sale throughout the mansion galleries and in the Gallery Shoppe that is filled with handmade treasures and gift ideas for any occasion. Be sure to take time to explore the 1890’s architecture and history. Exhibit will be on display until July 17th.
Plan to visit the Chaffee to experience the beauty of the 1890s Queen Anne Victorian Mansion and the wonderful works of art throughout. Enjoy a cup of tea or cocoa while you browse, or plan to meet a friend and cozy up in one of our many seating areas. Free Wi-Fi available. Hours: Thursday and Friday, 10am–5pm; Saturday, 10am–3pm. Chaffee Art Center, 16 South Main Street in Rutland, VT.