Eli Whitney Museum

Please Note: This is a four day class: Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri.
Mon, June 20th we are closed.

In Greek mythology, civilization begins with Prometheus’ gift of fire. This workshop will introduce fire as we present every tool: with respect for skill and safety. A celebration fitting for the summer solstice.

Major projects:

Ceramics: Shape and burnish pinch pots to be transformed in an oak fire that will reduce minerals into elegant colors.

Chemistry: The Chemical History of a Candle: experiments designed for children by the brilliant inventor Michael Faraday in EliWhitney’s Time

Solder: Assemble found objects with flux and solder, combining silver, copper, and brass

Campfires: Learn to build, light, and manage campfires, both traditional and interscholastic competition style.

Candle Culture: dip an elegant beeswax candle and reenact the history of artificial light.

Rockets: Trace the evolution of fireworks from China to 4th of July. Help build an Estes rocket display.

With classic small experiments: lens tricks, steel and flint sparks, hot air balloons, classic corn popping, tinfoil rockets, put-put boats, casting tin soldiers, steam toys, and more.

Sharing the light: This Workshop will contribute solar lights to children in Africa through Let there be Light International, inc. www.lettherebelightinternational.org