Lewis Carroll, born Charles Dodgson in Daresbary, UK, was a well known author, photographer, and mathematician. He worked as a mathematician at Christ Church in Oxford as well as a math professor at the University of Oxford. In 1865 he published his famous children’s book Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, a story of a young British girl who falls “down the rabbit hole” and discovers Wonderland. This short tale of Alice’s adventures in a non sense land made Lewis Carroll a household name. Countless adaptions and 150 years later, Alice in Wonderland remains a well known classic literary tale.
The British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia is pleased to support the Rosenbach in celebrating 150 years of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. The exhibition opens October 14, 2015 with the arrival of the original Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland manuscript. While the manuscript is only on display until October 18th, the three-part exhibition is open until May 15, 2016.
Part One, Wonderland Rules: Alice at 150, will consider Carroll as an out-of-the-box thinker, and explore Alice’s profound cultural legacy and the continuing impact of Carroll’s famous work. Part Two, Alice in Philly-land, will shed light on the story of Alice and Philadelphia, including the internationally renowned purchase of the manuscript at auction by Philadelphia book dealer A.S.W. Rosenbach for a world-record price. Part Three, Why is a Raven like a Writing Desk? Lewis Carroll’s Riddles, Puzzles and Games, will give visitors the opportunity to learn more about Carroll as a mathematician and puzzle lover, trying their hand at some of his mind-bending inventions in an interactive gallery. The Rosenbach will also explore the fascinating history of Charles Dodgson’s photography in the exhibition Through The Camera Lens, on view March 25 – May 15 2016.
In addition to these exhibitions there will be many other events around the Philadelphia area to celebrate Alice. From “Croquet in Wonderland” at Dilworth Park to a discussion with Christopher Morgan on Lewis Carroll’s puzzles and games, there will be entertainment for all ages. Visit The Rosenbach’s website for more information on these exhibits and the events surrounding it.
In honor of the 150th anniversary of this British author’s tale, the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia’s Annual Holiday Lunch will be Alice in Wonderland themed featuring keynote speaker Derick Dreher, John C. Haas Director of the Rosenbach.
