What's Up - Your guide to what's happening in Fayetteville, AR this week!
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FEBRUARY 28-MARCH 6, 2021 WHAT'S UP! 3 Hidden History Old State House Museum shows off its secrets JACK SCHNEDLER Special to the Democrat-Gazette A t a time when we could all use a chuckle or two, the Old State House Museum in Little Rock has mounted a lighthearted exhibit that makes a sprightly counterpoint to its sober- sided main focus on Arkansas political history. Opened in September in one of Little Rock's oldest public buildings, "Down The Rabbit Hole" boasts a whimsical name that brings to mind "Alice in Wonderland." The dozens of eclectic objects on display were selected from the 99% of the museum's 48,000 artifacts normally in storage and unseen by visitors. "Down the Rabbit Hole" also serves as a sampler for "Adventures in eMuseum," a sweeping compilation accessible online at collections.oldstatehouse.com/ collections. The website shows about 26,000 of the museum's objects. For Arkansans unable to visit the Old State House or wary of dropping by during the pandemic, virtual viewing is a sensible alternative. But it's a good deal more fun to take a look in person at "Down The Rabbit Hole," whose themes range from furniture and paintings to sports and musical instruments and costumes to jewelry. One piece of art takes a jocular poke at a perennial topic of contention in Arkansas, where the sale of alcoholic beverages is still wholly or partly banned in some counties. Painted by Arthur Weindorf in 1930, during national Prohibition, the cartoon shows President Herbert Hoover in a butcher's apron. He is eyeing with consternation a huge hunk of baloney labeled "Prohibition." With spring-training games on deck, baseball fans can savor "Rabbit Hole" memorabilia recently donated by Arkansan Cliff Lee, a former Cy Young Award winner. The gift includes a jersey worn when he pitched for the Cleveland Indians and a baseball autographed by the entire 2009 Philadelphia Phillies National League champions. COVER STORY The fountain at the Old State House Museum is a replica of the 1876 original. Along with "Down The Rabbit Hole," the Old State House Museum's first floor has galleries detailing the checkered history of the structure, during and after its role as the seat of government. (Special to the Democrat-Gazette/Jack Schnedler) On display at the Old State House Museum is Janet Huckabee's dress from her husband's inaugural ball. If Arkansas elects a female governor next year, it should be worth stopping by in 2023 just to see whether the inaugural-ball tuxedo worn by the Natural State's first first gentleman has been added to the "First Ladies" gown collection. (Special to the Democrat-Gazette/Jack Schnedler) See State House Page 4