About this experience:
Architectural historian Abigail Van Slyck will talk about her latest book, Playhouses and Privilege: The Architecture of Elite Childhood, in which she examines children’s cottages and playhouses built by upper-class families on both sides of the Atlantic. A tea will be served after her presentation.
The adult grandchildren of Commodore Vanderbilt have an important role in the story, as they were among the first Americans to embrace a practice that had been pioneered by Queen Victoria, building small, yet habitable structures for the use of their children in Newport, on Long Island, and right here in the Berkshires. Disarmingly quaint, these charming buildings were nonetheless deeply enmeshed in adult concerns, supporting parental ambitions for their offspring and for themselves.
Launched in 2018 in Berkshire County, Zeitcaster is an online platform that centralizes local event listings to foster community connections, helping residents and tourists discover public outings while boosting visibility for venues, organizations, and historic sites. Our calendar features a range of cultural, recreational, and family-friendly events to cater to diverse lifestyles. Designed for both venue operators and attendees, Zeitcaster supports tourism, economic growth, and civic pride—helping great events find the audiences they deserve. At a time when human connection matters more than ever, we make it simple for locals to uncover hidden gems and for visitors to authentically experience vibrant communities, promoting civic engagement and shared experiences for kids, parents, and friends alike.
Find delight with your community calendar, simplified.