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SMITHSONIAN OPENS "FENCES" IN ALABAMA
 | | "Between Fences" explores cultural history of fences and land use. |
CENTRE, Ala. -- Do "good fences make good neighbors?" Why? The Alabama Humanities Council is exploring this and other aspects of the cultural history of fences and land use as it sponsors "Between Fences," a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition at various venues throughout the state. Currently on display at the Cherokee County Historical Museum at 101 E. Main Street in Centre until April 22, "Between Fences" will also make stops at the Solomon Memorial Library in Headland from April 27 until June 10, and at the Cahaba Lily Center in West Blocton from June 22 until July 29. Through a selection of artifacts, photographs and illustrations, "Between Fences" will surprise audiences with its exploration of the multiple meanings behind this everyday icon. Whether made of split rails, decorative white pickets, or tall chain link, a fence conveys information about the people who built it, how they view and use their property, and the nature of their relations with their neighbors. Such barriers speak eloquently about how we view our communities and country as well. "Between Fences" explores the implications of fences in Colonial America, around gated communities, and at our country's borders with Canada and Mexico. "We are very pleased to be able to bring 'Between Fences' to our area," said Thereasa Hulgan, Executive Director of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce. "The exhibition allows us the opportunity to explore this fascinating aspect of our own region's history and we hope that it will inspire many to become even more involved in the cultural life of our community." "Allowing all our state's residents to have access to the cultural resources of our nation's premier museum is a priority of the Alabama Humanities Council," said Robert Stewart, Alabama Humanities Council Executive Director. "With this special tour, we are pleased to be working with the Cherokee County Museum to help develop local exhibitions and public programs to compliment the Smithsonian exhibition." "Between Fences" is a part of Museum on Main Street, collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES), state humanities councils across the nation, and local host institutions. To learn more about "Between Fences" and other Museum on Main Street exhibitions, visit www.museumonmainstreet.org.
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