An Afternoon with the Caldwells, 1855: The Abolitionist Fundraiser Presented in conjunction with the Smithsonian National Museum of American History's May Fair Celebration of the " Within These Walls" exhibit (2002), this 45-minute living history program brought to life the spirit of the Caldwells, active abolitionists who once lived in the Ipswich House - now housed on the second floor of the Museum. Abolitionist fundraisers often consisted of speeches, poems and prayers interspersed with song, and Singing Instructor Josiah Caldwell loved nothing more than a good Abolitionist Sing-a-long.   While keeping all of the above aspects of the meetings, McMath added Victorian dance and parlor games and blamed the fun on Josiah Caldwell's guests: a local "Juvenile Anti-Slavery Society" whose youthful members wished to "modernize proceedings." The public was then encouraged to join in the parlor grames and dances, and sing-a-long with "The Abolitionist Hymn" from the words provided in their programs. Pictured at right: dancing in the Hall of Musical Instruments at the National Museum of American History The "Fundraiser" also featured spirituals sung by Melike and Valerie Konur, a romantic Colonial duet presented by Molly Pinson and Tyler Amonson, and the "auctioning off" of a quilt "provided by the Ipsiwch Female Anti-Slavery Society," proceeds to benefit the National Anti-Slavery Society (Cast members are proud to note they raised 7,000 fictional dollars for the abolitionist cause during the program). One hour presentation, including question and answer session. For further information and availability, contact Meredith Bean McMath.     Pictured L to R: Wanda Juraschek, Stokes Tomlin, Mandy Juraschek, Tyler Amonson, Meredith Bean McMath, Melike Konur, Jonathan Tew, Millie Juraschek, Jimmy Cross, Jessica Evans-Wall, Ted Packard, Molly Pinson and Valerie Konur. Photo by Harold Dorwin courtesy of Smithsonian Photo. Costumes by Laurie Farnsworth.