Saturday, Oct 24, 2026: 10am-2:00pm
Silhouettes By Hand will be cutting silhouettes at The Pied Piper (retail store) in northern Baltimore City, MD. for ONE day only.

Rejoice that you are ready for holiday gifting! This is a wonderful opportunity to make your perfect appointment time for your silhouette sitting, choose in advance for an optional frame! Lauren doesn’t work many retail locations - this special opportunity is created for a store in her community of Baltimore, MD.

SCROLL DOWN to make your personal appointment. Please note that this system requests payment in advance to hold your appointment. This system guarantees your spot, even helps in having extras ready for you!

IMPORTANT NOTE: Frames are on backorder; they may be in by the event date. If not, you can still purchase in advance and pick up at Pied Piper after they will come in. You will be emailed.

The system will keep you updated, and you will have control over your appointment, even changing the time up to 12 hours in advance (if a slot is open).

The Week-end of Living History at the Old Yellow Meeting House

Sept 26 & 7, 2026

Lauren Muney of Silhouettes By Hand will be cutting silhouettes on SUNDAY, Sept 27 only, 10am-3:30pm with occasional breaks, in the Parsonage. She will be also discussing the original silhouettes on display from the community museum collection. The silhouettes are sponsored by Friends of the Old Yellow House.

Full weekend activities include (see link for details):
https://www.oymh.org/events/2026-week-end-of-living-history

• Spencer’s Additional Continental Regiment: Revolutionary War encampment, demonstrations and drills, Cemetery Honors Ceremony

• Colonial Craft Demonstrations: Spinning, Weaving, Woodworking, Embroidery, Rug hooking, Lacemaking, antique tool sharpening

• Native American stories, music and kids activities

• Cemetery Scavenger Hunt

• Archeology Display

• Lecture (on Saturday)

• Smilie’s Homemade Ice Cream

• Hot Dog Cart

CANCELED for 9/26 DUE TO WEATHER: The event is postponed to Oct 24, but Lauren Muney cannot attend the new date.

Lauren Muney of Silhouettes By Hand will be cutting silhouettes, freehand in the traditional manner with only scissors, on the Morristown NJ Green for the “Living History Weekend” celebrating Morristown NJ’s 250th: 11:00-3:00pm with occasional breaks. The silhouettes are sponsored by Morris County 250.

The full event info is here:
https://morriscounty250.morristourism.org/events/living-history-weekend-saturday/?occurrence=2026-09-26

Step Into the Past. Celebrate the Present

Join us for a weekend of discovery, community, and American heritage at the Living History Weekend in Morristown. While we finalize our full programming schedule, take a look below at what we have in store!

Encampment on the Morristown Green
Location: Morristown Green

Experience history coming alive right in the center of town. Time: 11:00AM – 3:00 PM

• Militia Drills and Encampments

• Historical people of the Revolutionary era

• Period demonstrations, such as 18th century medicine and your humble silhouette artist!

Open Houses & Tours of Morristown’s Historic Sites

Step inside the places where history happened.11:00AM – 4:00 PM

Locations:

• Macculloch Hall Historical Museum

• Sansay House

• Presbyterian Church in Morristown

Step back into the 1870s at the Armour–Stiner Octagon House in Irvington, New York, for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration honoring the nation’s Semiquincentennial in 2026.

Set against the extraordinary backdrop of this 1872 National Historic Landmark, the 1876 Centennial Garden Party transports guests to the moment when Americans marked the 100th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Located just 45 minutes north of New York City, this fête will feature period lawn games, live music, Victorian-era historic interpreters, Centennial artifacts, and 1876 inspired food and drink. Period costume is welcome (but not required) to join in the spirit of the celebration.

As part of the event, guests will also enjoy a self-guided visit through two interior floors of the house. A special highlight of the afternoon will be 1876-themed storytelling by Jonathan Kruk, bringing the spirit of the Centennial vividly to life.

Guests may stroll along the veranda, explore the octagonal Foxglove Garden, and encounter a variety of delightful surprises throughout the afternoon, including a sleight-of-hand magician and a silhouette artist cutting keepsake portraits by hand. Featured performers will include historical interpreters portraying George and Martha Washington and Benjamin Franklin.

Enjoy historically inspired light fare by Horsefeathers of Tarrytown while observing a game of Victorian croquet. The event will also include cold beverages, including two complimentary wine and beer drink tickets.

Unable to attend the Garden Party? This special event is the culmination of “The Octagon House: 1876 Centennial Tour,” a one-hour guided tour currently on view through September 20.

Tickets: https://armourstiner.com/guided-tours/1876-centennial-garden-party/

Event information:History on the Green
The Courthouse Green on Main Street (between N. Bridge St. & Grove St.) Somerville, NJ 08876

For the 5th year in a row, Lauren Muney of Silhouettes By Hand will be cutting silhouettes for visitors as time allows, 10-4:00pm with short breaks. First-come, first attended.

Saturday, July 18th, 2026 | 10:00AM-4:00PM

Step back into the past and visit Revolutionary-era New Jersey at Somerset County's free living history event for the whole family - History on the Green! Celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary and learn about Somerset County's rich local history during this fun-filled day of Revolutionary War-era activities and performances. 

Join us on the Historic Somerset County Courthouse Green in Somerville to:

• Explore a pop-up encampment & visit with Revolutionary War soldiers!

• Meet George and Martha Washington! (Don't forget to get their autographs!)

• See early-American artisans in action!

• Experience cannon and musket firing demonstrations!

• Play colonial toys & games!

• Listen to live period music!

• And SO MUCH MORE

2026 ACTIVITIES, PERFORMANCES & DEMONSTRATIONS

 Meet Famous Historical Figures!General George Washington and his wife Martha, along with Benjamin Franklin, will be visiting History on the Green to tell the story of how they met and how their lives were affected by the Revolution. Don't forget to get their autographs! 

New Jersey Militia - Heard's BrigadeExperience everyday life in an encampment during the American Revolution! It wasn’t all battlefields and fighting- see how the NJ Militia would have spent their time cooking, cleaning, playing games, and more.

Music of the Colonies
Enjoy traditional 18th century folk music! Musicians Tom and Marianne Tucker will perform colonial ballads accompanied by traditional instruments.

Enjoy the NJ Fifes & Drums live performances of late 18th-century music that would have been performed by a military corps of music during the Revolutionary War. This local group will be dressed in field musician uniforms of the 2nd New Jersey Regiment.

Hand-Cut Colonial Silhouettes! Watch in awe and excitement as professional artist Lauren Muney creates a hand-cut, colonial style portrait of you to take home. You have the easy part - sit and enjoy the experience! 

Colonial Lacemaking! Meet the Lost Art Lacers as they craft beautifully intricate lace as it would have been done in the colonial era. Then, try your hand at the art yourself on a practice pillow! Don't worry - the Lost Art Lacers will help you!

18th Century Reading & Writing! Make your own iron gall ink and write with a quill with Stationer Benjamin Bartgis! Admire a collection of original and reproduction items and books related to colonial reading and writing. 

Colonial Toys & Games with Liberty Hall Museum! Experience the toys and games of the past with Liberty Hall Museum! Try your hand at cup-and-ball, race with a hoop-and-stick, and make your very own clay marbles to take home!

18th Century Surveying Demonstration! Become a colonial surveyor! Learn about the tools the colonies used to survey the land and try it for yourself! 

Colonial Beekeeping! Learn about colonial-era beekeeping and beeswax candle making with Keith Lyon of K2 Apiary. Visit with a live bee display, see demonstrations of colonial-era beeswax production, and touch replica historic beekeeping items! 

18th Century Carpentry Demonstration! Ever wonder how furniture and homes were made during the 18th century? Join carpenter Scott Lance as he demonstrates how colonial carpenters would have worked! 

Blacksmithing Demonstration! Learn about 18th century tools for blacksmithing with the Old Millstone Forge. Watch a blacksmith work at a mobile forge!                                 

Collect History Trading Cards! Keep your eye out for this year's Semiquincentennial Special Edition Trading Cards! Each card features a notable person, place, event, or theme from Somerset County's rich history and deals out unique facts and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Collect them all!

SCC&HC programs and services are accessible to all. Reasonable accommodations and assistive services provided for scheduled programs and services with two weeks advance notice. For requests, please contact CulturalHeritage@somersetcountynj.gov or (908) 231-7021.

 Made possible with funds from the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and the New Jersey Historical Commission.

“French in Newport” family-friendly free event, Newport, RI

In July 1780, thousands of French troops landed in Newport beginning an occupation that lasted for nearly a year. The presence of this new ally represented a turning point in the American Revolution and the start of the Franco-American Alliance. Saturday July 11, 2026, the Newport Historical Society will showcase aspects of this pivotal point in American history during the French in Newport living history weekend, a free one-day event about life in the summer of 1780. Dozens of costumed living historians representing both civilians and French soldiers will discuss the challenges of establishing this new alliance.

From 11:00am-4:00pm, visitors can explore the role of French soldiers and sailors who fought for America’s independence and enjoy hands-on learning opportunities tied to this important period in Newport’s history. Demonstrations of historic trades will run all day in Eisenhower Park, with a full schedule of programs running concurrently just across the square in the Colony House.

This year’s event is particularly relevant, as the NHS celebrates the nation’s 250thanniversary. Semiquincentennial programming is already underway, and French in Newport will be a centerpiece of the anniversary in 2026.

Lauren Muney will be cutting silhouettes for visitors, 11-4pm.

Event information is TBA

Lauren Muney of Silhouettes By Hand will present a demonstrate silhouettes at the America’s 250th celebration in historic Annapolis, MD. Save the date for a one-of-a-kind 4th of July Celebration in 2026 at the William Paca House & Garden, Hogshead,Waterfront Warehouse and the Museum of Historic Annapolis!

Details below, and at this link.

Cost: Advance Purchase (through June 30) – $15 general admission; $10 for HA Members (and military); $5 Children 3-17 (free for under 3). One ticket gives you access to ALL THREE sites. All Prices will increase by $5 on July 1st!

William Paca House and Garden: 

Visitors can enjoy 30-minute guided tours of the William Paca House, featuring the Annapolis Living Historians. Hear what William Paca and his contemporaries might have thought about the bold decision to declare independence. 

The festivities continue in the Paca Garden with face painting, refreshments and patriotic crafts for all ages. Cool off in our Colonial Beer Garden and enjoy live music from Peter Brice and the New Century Irish-Arts Company.  

Get hands-on at the Revolutionary Trades Showcase, where we highlight the everyday skills that helped fuel independence. Try printing pamphlets that spread revolutionary ideas, learn about healing herbs, sew stars, and practice writing colonial-style letters. Have your silhouette created in the Summer House for a unique keepsake! 

Special Feature: Meet Frederick Douglass and hear an excerpt from his speech, “For What to a Slave is the Fourth of July”.  Nathan Richardson, renowned Frederick Douglass reenactor will give a FREE presentation at 1:00 pm on the Front Steps of the Paca House. 

Accessibility Considerations: Accessing the interior of the William Paca House requires ascending and descending several flights of stairs. Visitors with limited mobility can access the brick Paca Garden Terrace via the driveway of the Paca House. A single-use accessible restroom can be accessed by a ramp. The upper portion of the garden can be accessed via a ramp with handrails, but please note that garden pathways are loose pea gravel and steps must be traversed to access the lower levels of the garden. 

Museum of Historic Annapolis: 

Step into our American Story at the Museum of Historic Annapolis. Enjoy an inspiring film and explore three floors of interactive exhibits where you’ll discover diverse stories and amazing objects that represent over 400 years of our shared history!   

Meet Frederick Douglass and hear an excerpt from his speech, “For What to a Slave is the Fourth of July”.  Nathan Richardson, renowned Frederick Douglass reenactor, will speak to Frederick Douglass’s life, share his beliefs, and recall his travels and his book: 2 pm and 3 pm.   

Hogshead Trades Museum 

Celebrate America 250 with the lively sounds of the Revolutionary era! Stop by Hogshead Trades Museum and enjoy traditional fiddle music and discover how music was used during the American Revolution for entertainment, marching, and morale. Dance and sing along to “Yankee Doodle” as you learn the surprising origins of this beloved patriotic tune. 

About our Presenters:

• Nathan M. Richardson is a published author, performance poet and Frederick Douglass Historian. He is the author of four collections of poetry and teaches a variety of workshops for emerging writers and spoken word artists. Nathan is now in the 14th year of The Frederick Douglass Speaking Tour – a living history performance that captures completely the physical, spiritual and intellectual essence of the former slave, writer, orator and abolitionist Frederick Douglass. Nathan is a Chautauqua Scholar with more than 500 living history performances across the country.

• The New Century American Irish-Arts Company is a private, not for profit corporation dedicated to the artistic furtherance, cultivation, and preservation of Irish traditional music and dancing in the United States. They help traditional musicians, dancers, teachers, and researchers produce vocational work that brings traditional culture to the public.

• Lauren Muney of Silhouettes By Hand has been a professional artist, entertainer, special-event producer, and consultant for over 35 years. Alongside her graphic illustration degree from a leading arts college, her experience with live events of all types ranges across the United States, Canada, Australia, and in Asia and Europe.

• Annapolis Living Historians are highly researched, historically accurate living historians who interpret people of the past. They support Historic Annapolis as volunteers at our sites and events.

Cancellation and Refund Policy: Historic Annapolis reserves the right to cancel or alter any programs. Unless otherwise stated, all tickets are non-refundable. 

Lauren Muney will cut silhouettes at a special ca. 1814 experience session during Civic Season:

“Created by Gen Z-ers and cultural institutions more than six years ago, Civic Season™ has grown into a beloved annual tradition to learn history, build civic skills and connect with each other in the time between Juneteenth (June 19) and Independence Day (July 4). Every summer hundreds of historic sites, museums, libraries, parks, community groups, governments, leaders and public spaces unleash credible resources and activities to help you kick off the year ahead as an engaged citizen. Civic Season is designed by and for young adults  – the inheritors of our nation – but everyone’s invited to participate!”

(NOTE: This is limited to only those participants signed up for Civic Season)::

Lauren will be featured at The People’s House, cutting silhouettes freehand and talking about the democrazation of portraiture in Early America :

TICKETS:
https://www.whitehousehistory.org/events/peoples-house-party-white-house-history-ball

“Join us for a Civic Season after-hours party at The People’s House. Inspired by the dramatic burning of the White House by British troops in 1814, this immersive evening transports you back in time to the earliest years of White House history. You’ll learn the tea behind the long US–UK relationship from the Burning of the White House to the modern era— from enemies to frenemies to allies! Expect themed snacks and drinks, exclusive access to our exhibits, and a chance to try out Regency-era hobbies. Whether you’re here for the history, the vibes, or just an excuse to dress like you’re in a period drama, this night has you covered. Regency-inspired fits are highly encouraged (think Bridgerton and Jane Austen-core), but come as you are. All are welcome!”

Join us for a once-in-a-generation celebration of America’s 250th birthday with a full day of festivities right here in Juniata County. This county-wide birthday party will bring history to life through colonial-era demonstrations, music, food, and family-friendly activities, all culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. Visitors can explore a Declaration Station, enjoy live reenactments, hands-on demonstrations, art activities, kids’ games, and fun contests throughout the day. Entertainment highlights include a drum and fife band, a Native American live drum circle and dancing, a colonial dance troupe, and a special performance of “Blue Juniata.”

When & Where

• Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026

• Time: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

• Location: McAlisterville Lost Creek Park: 137 School St, McAlisterville, Pennsylvania, United States.

Lauren Muney will be cutting silhouettes and discussing history, to celebrate! 1-4pm

Join us at Preservation Long Island’s Custom House for Meigs Weekend, a public living-history event commemorating Sag Harbor’s role in the American Revolution and the 250th anniversary of the United States. Another link: https://sagharborhistoricalmuseum.org/event/meigs-raid-celebration/

Preservation Long Island and the Sag Harbor Historical Museum and members of The 3rd New York Regiment, a nonprofit living history organization, are pleased to host Meigs Weekend, a FREE, interactive two day event that includes an 18th century Continental Army encampment and reenactments of the 1777 Meigs Raid, also known as the Battle of Sag Harbor, where Long Island patriots fought back British troops. Costumed troops will march, muskets will fire and Long Island history will come alive for the weekend.

Visitors will also enjoy 18th-century musical performances by Heather Reylek and other musicians, colonial cooking demonstrations by Diane Schwindt, woodworking demonstrations by Colonial Crafts of Connecticut, traditional silhouette cutting by Silhouettes by Hand, and a family-friendly scavenger hunt.

The Sag Harbor Whaling Museum is offering free admission during the weekend event and children’s story readings by the John Jermain Memorial Library will take place on the Custom house lawn.

Self-guided tours of the Custom House will also be available during the weekend event. Visitors will receive a Custom House 250th tour booklet, and Preservation Long Island’s trained Educators will be available throughout the day to answer questions about the site’s history, materials, and architecture. In addition, visitors with the Long Island 250th Anniversary Passport Book will receive a commemorative stamp from the Custom House which is one of Long Island historic sites listed in the Passport Book.

Preservation Long Island celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence

Join us in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with special events, programs, and tours across our four historic properties on Long Island. As one of the most historic regions in New York, Long Island played a pivotal role in the American Revolution.

Preservation Long Island’s historic houses, exhibition gallery, collections, and archival manuscripts reveal how local people on Long Island contributed to the unique story of our nation’s founding in profound ways. From Colonel Josiah Smith’s orderly book recording the movements of Long Island’s Minute Men in August 1776, as British forces prepared to land, to the writings of Jupiter Hammon (1711–before 1806) — America’s first published Black poet, enslaved on Long Island — whose works grappled with the moral conflicts of slavery and freedom in the early United States, Long Island’s complex and compelling history comes vividly to life.

Be sure to check this page often for additional events and announcements about special programs we are offering for America’s 250th Anniversary. We look forward to celebrating with you as we honor Long Island’s role in our shared history.

The event goes from 10am until 5pm
“Silhouettes By Hand” will be 12-4pm using free “appointment” tickets, available at the silhouette tent. Limited tickets for participating, but all can watch, listen, and ask questions! To get a ticket, be one of the first people at the tent every hour! Tickets will go fast.

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https://moorestown250.com

Location: Locust Street Park: Locust Street & Kenilworth Avenue (three blocks north of Main Street), Moorestown, NJ 08057:
Exact address: 324 Locust St, Moorestown, NJ 08057

Hosted by the Historical Society of Moorestown in partnership with the Museum of the American Revolution. General George Washington's legendary War Tent (”The First Oval Office”) comes to Moorestown for a day of living history with costumed interpreters, replica camp equipage, music, colonial crafts, food, beer garden, and family-friendly activities. Just show up at the tent in the park. Tent setup begins at 9 a.m. The tent is open 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Opening Remarks · 10:00 a.m.

On-Stage Program

• 11:00–11:15 a.m. · History presentation: "Moore's Town: A Town Between Two Taverns"

• 11:15 a.m.–noon · Musical presentation by the Sea Dogs

• Noon–12:15 p.m. · History presentation: "The Skirmish at 'Sinneminsin'"

• 12:15–1:00 p.m. · Presentation by the Sea Dogs

• 1:00–1:45 p.m. · Music by the Golden Eagle Band

• 2:00–2:15 p.m. · History presentation: "Hessian Invaders"

• 2:15–3:00 p.m. · Presentation by the Sea Dogs

• 3:00–4:00 p.m. · George and Martha Washington talk about their lives

• 3:00–3:15 p.m. · History presentation: "Meet the Ex-Royal Treasurer of the Jersey Colony"

• 3:15–4:00 p.m. · Presentation by the Sea Dogs

Book Signings: 10-4pm

Throughout the Day

• Reenactors from the First Battalion, New Jersey Volunteers, and the Sea Dogs perform

• Reenactors portraying George Washington, Ben Franklin, and Betsy Ross wander the site and interact with visitors

• Quilt exhibit using fabric with a Washington theme

• Exhibit of posters made by Moorestown elementary-age students

• American Forces Heritage Museum display

Demonstrations & Vendors

• 10 a.m.–2 p.m. · The Peapod Weavers — basketry making and sales

• 10 a.m.–4 p.m. · Halfcrown Bakery — bread baked in the colonial manner by Mount Vernon's resident baker

• Noon–4 p.m. · Lauren Muney — silhouette cutting

• 2–5 p.m. · Holly Myers — "Kindness Across America 250"

The mission of Moorestown250 is to educate and inspire the public about the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. Founded in 1682, Moorestown was already a thriving Quaker settlement by the time the colonies rose in rebellion. Through collaborative efforts, we seek to honor the legacy of the Revolution, highlight its impact on our communities, and engage residents and visitors alike in meaningful celebrations. By fostering public participation, promoting tourism, and elevating our collective historical significance, we strive to ensure that the stories of our past continue to shape our future.

Morristown, NJ throws its 250th gala event - the Patriots Ball honoring George Washington, sponsored by Morris County 250th Committee and the Morris County Tourism Bureau! Dance the night away and celebrate at the Ford Mansion in Morristown, General George Washington's headquarters from December 1779 to June 1780 during the American Revolutionary War.

Lauren Muney from Silhouettes by Hand will be cutting silhouettes freehand with only scissors, helping celebrating people experience the historic portrait form, silhouettes, which was taking Europe by storm in the 1770s, soon to arrive on the shores on the new United States.

An Invite-Only 250th Anniversary Gala

Join us for an extraordinary evening of history and elegance at Morris County’s Patriots Ball Honoring George Washington, an invite-only gala commemorating America’s 250th Anniversary.

Held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 5:30–9:30 PM at Morristown National Historical Park, the event takes place at one of the most significant sites of the American Revolution. Morristown served as General Washington’s military headquarters and winter encampment, where critical decisions were made that shaped the outcome of the war and the future of the nation—making it a powerful and fitting setting for this historic celebration.

The evening’s centerpiece will be the exclusive display of a replica of George Washington’s Inaugural Ball suit, offering guests a rare and meaningful connection to the founding of the United States. Guests will enjoy a refined dinner experience, period music and dancing, a live performance by the Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey, historical reenactors, and remarks from distinguished sponsors and partners.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations seeking a prominent role in this signature USA250 event. Funds raised through the gala will advance Morris County’s 250th initiatives and help bring this commemorative celebration to life.

Join nationally and internationally renown artisan Lauren Muney of "Silhouettes By Hand" at Frederick Book Arts Center on international "Print Day in May" 2026.

On May 2, 1-3pm, as she discusses silhouettes of the early 19th century, her published research into the materials of traveling artists (hint: soot and beer), her use of letterpress with her silhouettes. This will be an interesting artist talk combining history, physical examples, and an opportunity for visitors to join in. Lauren will stay to cut silhouettes of visitors. Silhouette "appointments" are limited, and will be given out on site. (Suggested donation for your silhouette).

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The mission of the Frederick Book Arts Center is to teach the craft and techniques associated with the Art of the Book. Letterpress printing, printmaking, bookbinding, photography, and language arts will be taught through a combination of workshops, field trips, school visits, and classes. Community members can utilize letterpress and digital production, a complete book bindery, printmaking studio, and screen printing and photographic darkroom. In addition to traditional book arts techniques, members can explore experimental printmaking and alternative photography processes and experimental (such as zines and sculptural books) and new book forms. Workshops led by staff, volunteers, and visiting specialists take place throughout the year.

“Print Day in May is an annual, global celebration of printmaking taking place on the first Saturday in May. The event is free and open to all. On Print Day in May, tens of thousands of printmakers around the world make prints and share their experiences with others. Printmakers celebrate Print Day in May in print shops, studios, kitchens, on beaches, and sidewalks all over the world! As the day unfolds around the globe, participants in over 80 countries join in this powerful celebration of creativity.”

The Hunterdon County (NJ) Teen Arts Festival is coordinated through a partnership between the Hunterdon County Cultural & Heritage Commission, the Hunterdon County Library, the Hunterdon County 4H, Hunterdon County schools, and Hunterdon County nonprofit arts organizations. Open to all 13 to 19-year old students who attend school in Hunterdon County, NJ, this event provides a forum for students to showcase their talents through exhibitions of visual art, theatrical presentations, dance, vocal and instrumental music performances, and presentations original film and creative writing. Students experience the work of their peers and receive constructive feedback from professional artists. This project is made possible with funds from the Hunterdon County Cultural & Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

Lauren Muney will be cutting silhouettes freehand for festival participants, and discussing the impact of this democratizing portrait form on early Americans. The 250th anniversary of the USA will be well-represented in this historical trade, which dates back to the earliest years of the nation!

Lauren Muney “Silhouettes By Hand”, of Baltimore MD, is one of the few people in the world cutting silhouette portraits freehand. Using only paper and scissors— no drawing in advance, using any shadow or machinery— she creates the silhouette in mere moments, just as they have been cut for hundreds of years. Experience a portrait as would have been done before photography was invented! Have you been curious what life was like during the Revolutionary era? Your portrait will show your revolutionary self.

Lauren Muney will be cutting silhouettes freehand at this 2026-season-opening event!

“The Hands-On History: Traditional Crafts Festival at The Red Mill Museum Village in Clinton, NJ, offers families a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience history firsthand. Through interactive, costumed demonstrations, visitors can try their hand at the essential skills of daily life from the Colonial period to the early 1900s. Children and adults alike will participate in activities like candle making, woodworking and textile processing, gaining a deeper understanding of the tools and tasks that shaped everyday life in the past.

The Red Mill Museum Village will host its third Hands-On History event in April, offering families a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience history firsthand. Through demonstrations and interactive activities, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the tools and tasks that shaped everyday life in the past while connecting visitors with skilled artisans who are actively preserving these practices.

There is particular excitement over the return of Baltimore, Maryland-based historical artisan Lauren Muney of Silhouettes By Hand, one of only 20 freehand-scissoring silhouette artists in the world. These types of portraits are iconic to early American history as silhouettes were the portraits of the common people before the invention of photography. Her free-hand silhouette portraits made only with paper and scissors will be offered to guests free of charge.

Other artisans will be members of our staff demonstrating blacksmithing, greenwood carving and candle making as well as a variety of other exceptional local artisans representing a wide range of historic trades and domestic arts including traditional leatherwork, historic sewing and costuming, spinning and weaving, lacemaking, rug hooking, traditional quilting and more.

Our covered 40’x80’ pavilion will feature demonstrations by local guilds, historical societies and artisans who preserve traditional crafts. Visitors can explore woodworking, tinsmithing, timber framing, blacksmithing, pottery making, gunsmithing, toolmaking and hand sewing. Participants will have the chance to learn directly from experts representing groups like CRAFTS NJ, the Hunterdon County Historical Society and the Handweavers Guild of Bucks County.

It's an immersive, family-friendly event where history comes to life through hands-on experiences and expert demonstrations.”

Historic Walnford welcomes back Lauren Muney to cut silhouettes in a featured experience!

Picturesque after a snowfall, full of fascinating history throughout the year, any day is a great time to visit this wonderful historic site and learn more about the Waln family and the evolution of Walnford over two centuries - from an 18th century industrial village and family farm to an elegant country estate. At the heart of the Crosswicks Creek Park, the site showcases over 200 years of social, technological and environmental history through the Waln family. The historic district includes 36 acres of field, woodland and wetlands. Visit the large, elegant Waln House built in 1773, the 19th century gristmill and the farm buildings set in a beautiful landscape. 

Hampton National Historic Site, Towson, MD: This year’s free event will explore the sounds of the season and how music, songs, and storytelling shaped the holiday traditions of all those who lived and worked at Hampton from 1783 through 1948.

Lauren Muney will be dressed in 183s clothing, helping remind our community of Hampton’s long history across the centuries. Silhouette portraits are a reminder from before photography was invented.

She will be located in the Orangerie, providing historic style silhouette portraits for guests between 12-3pm . There is no charge for the silhouettes but the appointment times - using appointment tickets - will be handed out as first-come.

Event: 10am-3pm
Silhouettes: 10:30am-12:30pm
Join Mount Clare House Museum for an open-house style celebration of the holiday season on Saturday, Dec 6, 2025, featuring new interpretive displays, refreshments, and Lauren Muney of Silhouettes By Hand . More information is here

Getting Here

Free parking on the street in front of the museum or in lots at Carroll Park. Please enter the home on the side with the white fence to the door facing West.

About Mount Clare

Mount Clare Museum preserves a circa 1760 historic house and the surrounding landscape, and presents the history of Baltimore City’s development, by focusing on the lives of individuals who lived, worked, and played here. A National Historic Landmark (designated in 1970) located in Baltimore City’s Pigtown/Southwest neighborhood in Carroll Park, the museum presents a self-guided exhibit on the industrial development of this former plantation and tells the history of the property aft

Monument Lighting Open House: Sip and Silhouettes

Warm up at the Maryland Center for History and Culture during the historic Washington Monument lighting! Organized by the Mount Vernon Place Conservancy, this annual tradition has taken place in Baltimore since 1971. Enjoy a self-serve hot chocolate bar and live holiday carols, and receive a free custom hand-cut silhouette portrait from Lauren Muney, local traditional silhouette artist. Registration is required. Free Museum admission between 5 and 8 pm.
Event info page, with registration: https://www.mdhistory.org/calendar/monument-lighting-open-house-sip-and-silhouettes/

Finding Moses Williams

Free Virtual Program presented by the Library Company of Philadelphia and the Center for American Art at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Event description and registration: https://support.librarycompany.org/event/finding-moses-williams/e728331

Lauren Muney will present her interpretation of silhouette artists Moses Williams’ technique.

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This program of illustrated talks by five speakers focuses on the identification of the exceptional hollow-cut paper profiles created by Moses Williams (1776-1830) at Peale’s Philadelphia Museum and on presenting new historically accurate information about Williams’s life and family. Moses’s parents were manumitted by Peale in 1786 and Moses, who was born enslaved, was then indentured to Peale by his parents until age twenty-eight

Raised within the Peale family, Moses was literate and trained in skills for creating and installing the Museum’s displays of art and natural science. After the installation of a physiognotrace device for creating hollow-cut paper profiles in 1802, Moses was freed and given the concession to operate this new attraction. The popularity of this inexpensive form of portraiture and the highly accurate and elegant profiles Moses cut, made him financially independent.

Recent research into Moses’s life provides us with a clearer understanding of his artistry and other activities, as well as his death date and the identity of his descendants. And, the story of Williams’s birth family illuminates how the practice of indenture used by Free Black families, like the Williams family, was a strategy for seeking financial stability.

A small selection of Moses Williams’s profiles will be on display at the Library Company during November and December and in the Peale Gallery at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Speakers and Presentations

1:00pm - Introduction and Welcome to LCP, Sarah J. Weatherwax, Senior Curator of Graphic Arts, The Library Company of Philadelphia

Introduction to LCP’s Program in African American History, Wynn Eakins, Reference Librarian and African American History Subject Specialist, The Library Company of Philadelphia

1:10pm - Finding Moses in the Peale-Sellers family album, Carol Soltis, Ph.D., Project Associate Curator, Philadelphia Museum of Art

1:35pm - Presenting Moses at The Peale, Baltimore’s Community Museum, Nancy Proctor, Ph.D. Re-founding Director of The Peale, Baltimore’s Community Museum.

2:00pm - ‘Not Yet Completely Free,’ Moses and his family in the context of the Gradual Manumission Act, Ellen Fernandez Sacco, Ph.D., genealogist, independent scholar.

2:25pm - Locating Moses William in Philadelphia, new information about Moses Williams’s life and death based on a re-examination of Philadelphia’s primary sources. Dean Krimmel, Creative Museum Services,  research consultant to The Peale, Baltimore’s Community Museum

2:50 Moses Williams, A Technical View, Lauren Muney, Silhouette Artist & Researcher

3:15 Final Q & A and wrap up.

The program is sponsored by the Library Company of Philadelphia’s Program in African American History and the Center for American Art at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Saturday, Oct 25, 2025: 10am-3:00pm
Silhouettes By Hand will be cutting silhouettes at The Pied Piper (retail store) in northern Baltimore City, MD. for ONE day only.

Rejoice that you are ready for holiday gifting! This is a wonderful opportunity to make your perfect appointment time for your silhouette sitting, choose in advance for an optional frame! Lauren doesn’t work many retail locations - this special opportunity is created for a store in her community of Baltimore, MD.

SCROLL DOWN to make your personal appointment. Please note that this system requests payment in advance to hold your appointment. This system guarantees your spot, even helps in having extras ready for you!

IMPORTANT NOTE: There are NO MORE FRAMES available. Please do not order frames.

The system will keep you updated, and you will have control over your appointment, even changing the time up to 12 hours in advance (if a slot is open).

Lauren will be a special featured artist at the beautiful and elegant Evening of Festivities at the Jane Austen Society Annual General Meeting, which will be featured in Baltimore MD in 2025 … during the Ball on Saturday Night.

“The Jane Austen Society of North America is a non-profit organization staffed by volunteers and dedicated to the enjoyment and appreciation of Jane Austen and her writing. The society’s ranks have grown to more than 5,000 members, making JASNA the largest literary society devoted to Jane Austen. But its collegiality and purpose remain the same. Members are of all ages and from diverse walks of life. Although most members live in the United States and Canada, Austen admirers from more than a dozen countries are also JASNA members.
… Each autumn 700 to 800+ members also gather for JASNA's Annual General Meeting (AGM), a three-day conference with an Austen theme hosted by a JASNA region in the United States or Canada. The AGM features dozens of lectures by Austen scholars and JASNA members, as well as workshops, exhibits, entertainment, and a banquet and Regency ball.” [source]

From the website: 2025 will be a milestone year as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth! Austen at 250 will be the culminating event focusing on Jane Austen and her work, which she once characterized as “little bit (two inches) of Ivory” but that has endured for centuries. Baltimore will be a salute to her legacy, timelessness, relevance, and enduring genius through an exploration of:

• Literary genius

• Published and unpublished works

• Surviving letters

• Innovation in writing technique

• Milestones of her life

• Education and daily life

• Family and friends

From the Saturday evening description:
”All Attendee and Companion registrants are invited to participate in the evening’s activities. Please remember to bring your name badges and banquet tickets. You may also take away a special reminder of the 2025 AGM in the form of a hand-cut silhouette by artist Laura Muney, who will fulfill prearranged 5-minute appointments during the ball. See the Special Sessions page for details.”

“The mission of AHFP is to preserve and interpret agricultural practices and lifestyles spanning the early 1700s through the late 1960s”

The Harvest Festival returns to the Agricultural History Farm Park on Saturday, October 4 . Enjoy a fun-filled fall day on the farm with traditional crafts, activities, music, and food during the 31st Annual Harvest Festival.

Lauren Muney will be cutting silhouettes for the public - information TBD.