St. Johnsbury Area Culture
arching commands, and learn how to forecast the weather using Mother Nature’s clues – all at the same place? At the Fairbanks Museum on St. Johnsbury’s Main Street Saturday, September 20, 2008, its annual Festival of Traditional Crafts will show these and many more examples of unique New England skills..jpg)
Held on the grounds of the museum, the festival is fascinating for folks of all ages. You may never have seen many of the crafts and skills demonstrated by the talented artisans and experts, whose vast knowledge includes agricultural, historical, and building themes. There will be plenty of opportunities to experience the traditional crafts as the experts guide you through the process as you try it for yourself.
New to the festival this year is master clipper Carolyn Guest, who cuts amazing silhouettes with sheep shears. And area artist Delsie Hoyt Eaton will demonstrate the art of rug braiding, which she does with a style all her own.
A special addition to the festival this year is a concert by the Bob
.jpg)
Amos Band at 7:00 pm, right across the street at the North Congregational Church. Along with guest singer/songwriter Drexel Rayford, Bob’s band will celebrate the music of Vermont with his eclectic style – “folk music with a kick!” The Fairbanks Festival of Traditional Crafts is great fun for everyone. You’re sure to learn something new about something old!
St. Johnsbury Cultural Life
The cultural life of St. Johnsbury has been greatly influenced by the generosity of the Fairbanks family. The Fairbanks family founded both the Fairbanks Museum and the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, a National Historic Landmark. The Athenaeum houses a valuable art collection and the Fairbanks Museum has a planetarium as well as a plethora of historical collections, including outstanding dioramas.
Artists and writers flock to St. Johnsbury, lured by the tranquility and beautiful vistas in the town and surrounding areas. Among the artists located in St. Johnsbury is Stephen Huneck, founder of Dog Mountain, which contains the world's only Dog Chapel. Local writers include Reeve Lindbergh and Nathaniel Tripp. We have compiled a directory of local writers and artists, as well as links to their work.
Poetry is thriving in St. Johnsbury, which houses the unique poetry collection of Beth Kanell. Beth is a writer who also mentors many other poets. You can read about her thoughts on poetry and other subjects on her Kingdom Books blog.
Local Writers Directory
Local Artists Directory