What's in the Basement?

What role does a photographer play in documenting wars or protests? Is it okay to stage a scene in order to present a clear, bold perspective? A photograph of Abraham Lincoln from our collection inspires a unique train of thought on recreating historical moments.

For over a hundred years, the Berkshire Museum has been an evolving community resource for the city of Pittsfield. Who were the key players in its early days and what impact did they have on both the physical building and the ideas it permeated?

In ancient Rome, regular visits to the bathhouse were hugely important and everyone was equipped their balsamarium - like this one! Dating back to between 1st and 4th century CE, this glass vessel was used to hold perfumes or oils in Roman culture.

What kinds of turtles live in Massachusetts? This episode examines the habitats, behavior, and protection of three turtle species found in our Aquarium: the snapping turtle, eastern box turtle, and northern red belly cooter.

Our 143lb watermelon-shaped meteorite from Canyon Diablo in Arizona sparks a conversation on space, chemistry, and tektite art with guest and glassblowing expert Josh Simpson.

Isabel Bishop's etching Double Date Delayed (1948) exemplifies her style as a printmaker by capturing a slice of life in early twentieth century Manhattan. Educational Specialist Emma joins Craig to unpack this piece and discuss Bishop's boundary-pushing artistic choices.

Kelcee L. Smith lends her expertise on the endangered sawfish species as she and Craig examine a rostrum from the museum's collection. Kelcee is a Biologist and PhD student at Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge.

Before bikes we had penny farthing bicycles! How were they different and where did their name come from? Listen to find out!

Over 150 years ago, trains changed the Berkshires for the better, making it a hub of trade and travel. A photograph of an old railway roundhouse gets Peter and Craig discussing the evolution of cities that comes with new technology and infrastructure.

The Manger (1899) by photography pioneer Gertrude Kasebier is one of her best-known photos and an excellent example of the Pictorialist aesthetic.