Swords of the Americas & The Art of the Duel March 7, 2009

Starting March 7, the Frazier International History Museum opens two new temporary exhibitions, Swords of the Americas and The Art of the Duel. One is a unique and historically significant collection of artifacts. The other challenges romantic notions of dueling and poses the question—Is it defending one’s honor or sanctioned murder?

Swords of the Americas, George E. Weatherly’s private collection of swords, sabers and related artifacts from the United States, Canada and various South American countries, is a fascinating glimpse into the past. Through the exhibition, Weatherly—a scholar, collector and past president of the American Society of Arms Collectors-- shares his passion for this area of study and collecting that is often neglected.

Then, discover The Art of the Duel. Learn what separates a duel from regular fighting and ponder whether dueling was an effective process to address grievances or simply a socially-sanctioned form of murder. The display will define dueling and the special code of conduct required of the combatants. Learn where dueling was practiced and how it was done in various places, including the United States. A highlight of the exhibit will be a description of one of America’s most famous duels between Alexander Hamilton, former Secretary of the Treasury, and sitting Vice President Aaron Burr on July 11, 1804. Watch a one-on-one showdown as interpreters dramatize this historical event.

Both exhibitions are free with museum admission and run March 7 through August 9.

Official Website: http://www.fraziermuseum.org