Fundraiser Supports Historic Russell Chapel Restoration May 20

On May 20, All American Productions and The Friends of Indian Hill Cemetery are proud to present “From Gothic to Light: A Day of Art, History, Music and Fashion.” This fundraiser, held 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., will benefit the restoration of The Russell Chapel, which is located on the grounds of Indian Hill Cemetery, 383 Washington Street, Middletown.

The day will include:

• A drawing class outdoors on the grounds of the cemetery led by Kate Ten Eyck, visiting assistant professor of art. Included in this 90 minute activity are large vintage postcards with a blank front, and all supplies needed to create a beautiful drawing of the chapel. Ten Eyck will offer instruction in composition, perspective, and shading. All levels of drawing welcome and encouraged. Start time is 10:15 a.m.
• A Gothic Fashion Show, to lead off from the entrance of the chapel, featuring incredible attire courtesy of Redfield Design. Start time is noon.
• Live music courtesy of the The Latin Quarter Jazz Collective.
• Civil War presentation at the Grand Army of the Republic and General Mansfield’s gravesite.
• Notable tours of the cemetery every half hour throughout the day.
• See the current restoration progress of the chapel.

This event is family friendly, and food and refreshments will be available on site.

Although this is a free event, donations are encouraged! All money raised will go directly to the restoration and rehabilitation of the chapel, built in 1867. For more information visit this Facebook event.

Any Wesleyan students, alumni or employees who would like help preserve a piece of Middletown’s celebrated past, may make a donation to the Russell Chapel Rehabilitation Fund. Memorial gifts and multi-year pledges are welcome, as are designated gifts.

To make a gift or to learn more about the history of the chapel, visit http://indian-hill.org/chapel/.