Location: Arts

The Carlisle Indian School Historical Site

The Carlisle Indian School is an important piece of Carlisle’s history. The school was built on the current site of the Carlisle Barracks in the late 1800s. From 1879-1918 more than 10,000 Native American children were brought to the school with the intention of integrating them into white society. They were taught academics for one half of the day and trades for the other half.

While this does not necessarily represent a positive time in Carlisle’s history, it is an important part of American and Carlisle history and it should not be ignored. As we continue to foster a growing and diverse community in Carlisle, we must remember our history and where we came from. Carlisle has a rich history sprinkled with proud moments and rough times. We can learn from both the good and the bad in our history and continue to incorporate it into the community that we are.

Students, residents, and tourists can visit the Carlisle Indian school and learn about this moment in Carlisle’s history. You can pick up a guided walking tour at the Cumberland County Visitor’s Center on W. High street.

April 27, 2014
The Artist Market of Pomfret Street

The Artist Market Of Pomfret St. welcomes Pennsylvania artists and craftsmen to bring their wares. They display and sell their art on consignment. They are fortunate to reside in an area that is full of such talented people. They are happy to showcase residents work in the front room.

The Artist Market Of Pomfret St. was founded in October of 2010 right before the holiday season. The retail space of the building was vacant, so we got in touch with local artists and craftsman. Since then it has grown and they have about 40 artists and craftsmen represented in the front area of the shop.

They have recently begun carrying polish pottery. It started small, but there has been such a demand that they have expanded to a full room! So come check out the Polish Pottery Room. Polish Pottery is hand made and painted in Poland. Bake in it, freeze in it, microwave and dishwasher safe. We have one the largest collections of Polish Pottery in the area. They encourage their customers to use it and enjoy it. In addition to its beauty, another great advantage is easy clean up.

Support and buy local!

April 1, 2014
American Artisan Gallery

The American Artisan Gallery specializes in offering fine works by America’s Guild Artists. Be sure to stop by this recently opened gallery in downtown Carlisle to see and purchase a unique assortment of arts and crafts fashioned by American artists from throughout the country. You’ll be sure to find the perfect pieces among the ever-changing mix of beautifully crafted items. Most of the works are created by members of a guild who are the best in their respective fields. From leather cases for men and women to hand carved Santas, you’ll find it here.

For every dollar spent at a local business 45 cents is reinvested locally versus for every coperate dollar spent only 15 cents comes back to the community (American Express). We are providing local artisans with the opportunity to share their wares and share the arts with Carlisle. In additions small businesses are what keep the town thriving and vibrant.

This storefront stood empty for 12 years before it was revitalized and turned into the American Artisan Gallery. The store is also a piece of Carlisle’s history as it has been a store since the 1700s.

April 1, 2014
Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC)
The Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC) serves and enriches the community by encouraging creativity and self-esteem through exploration and appreciation of the visual arts. It does this via classes and workshops, exhibits, and participation in community events. Since its founding in January 1992, CALC has offered a variety of courses for children and adults in a number of settings, including the Carlisle YWCA, Carlisle Community Center, One West Penn, Cumberland Crossings, and Memorial Park Train Station. Disadvantaged children and adults may participate in CALC classes at reduced charges via its scholarship program. In 2001, CALC began offering customized workshops at the request of organizations like the Girl Scouts and the YWCA summer day camp program. Since 1998 CALC has also mounted a variety of arts and craft exhibits that are free to the public.

CALC’s Signature Programs:
- ArtWORKS!: An after-school program for middle school students that promotes self-esteem and giving back to the community through the arts.
- Works in the Windows: A partnership that provides artwork in vacant storefront windows.
- Art Classes, Camps, and Lectures: Educational opportunities for both children and adults in a variety of mediums.
- Hope Station and CONNECT Summer Art Camps: Full scholarship-based camps that provide all children the access to art.
- Empty Bowls: A fundraising event organized by CALC to benefit Project S.H.A.R.E.
- Exhibitions: Opportunities for local and regional artists to exhibit their work in CALC’s gallery, sales gallery, and off-site locations throughout Carlisle.
- Art on the Farm: A partnership with Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture to showcase Central Pennsylvania’s unique agricultural resources through art, education, and food.
- Scholarships: CALC provides financial aid to assure all children and adults have access to art classes and camps.
March 30, 2014