Music at the Museum Concert Series Coming to Karpeles

2016 is the year I discovered what the Karpeles Manuscript Museum is all about. The first surprise was that it is free (except for the quarter or quarters you plug into the meter because you have to park on the street.) The second surprise was that this is one of a dozen such Karpeles Manuscript Libraries around the country, in cities from New York to Charleston to Texas and Santa Barbera, and all manner of places in between. The third surprise is that the Karpeles Manuscript Library is purportedly the largest private collection of original manuscripts and documents in the world. And finally, biggest surprise of all, the founder graduated from Denfeld High School here in West Duluth.

Original documents that make history real.

The building that houses the exhibitions in Duluth was designed in 1912 by premiere architect Frank German, who also designed the former YWCA that now houses the American Indian Community Housing Organization whose many arts functions I have written about these past several years. The building was designed for the Church of Christ Scientist in the days before microphones came into existence. Thus, one of its key features is fabulous acoustics.

For this reason it is an ideal location for concerts. Beginning January 8 the First Sunday Chamber Series will begin, with concerts through May on the first Sunday of each month. The concerts begin at 3 p.m. and for parking you may use the Gitchee Gammi Club parking lot just below the alley. Enter through the side door.

Two other events will be taking place before this, though. On January 3 a new manuscript exhibit will be installed featuring documents related to the history of medicine. This will be a fairly comprehensive overview of medical breakthroughs and understanding. I suspect that local schools will be making visits, and if you are a homeschooling parent I would recommend Karpeles as a destination, both for this and all other exhibits that pass this way.

The History of Medicine will be featuring the following:
Harvey's discovery of the circulation of blood
Lister on germs and the emergence of hygiene
Robert Koch's discovery of infection
Ben Franklin on hospitals
Dorothea Dix on insanity
Mesmer's work on hypnotism

Other documents include:
Louis Pasteur's treatment for rabies
Albert Schweitzer's investigation of leprosy
Document(s) related to Clara Barton, founder of the Red Cross
Pauling and Funk's discovery of vitamins
The development of peniciilin
Christian Barnard on heart disease
Treve's work on "Elephant Man"
Pavy's work on diabetes
The history of the Mayo Clinic
Sabin and mass vaccination
and Crick's work on DNA

British minister expelled, but "He is to be treated with kindness and attention."

Personally, I think this sounds like a pretty impressive exhibit. If you are looking for an excuse besides the exhibit itself to come check things out, there will be a Ghost Ship Warehouse Fire Benefit Concert on January 6 from 6 - 11 p.m. featuring experimental and atmospheric music.

Karpeles is located across the street from St. Luke's Hospital on First Street in Duluth. If you're unable to make a concert, consider dropping in during your lunch hour sometime. I can assure you that it will be worth your while.

EdNote: The examples on this page are from the current exhibit will we be departing this week.