May 2026 - May 2027
Exhibit at Musselman Library
Special Collections Reading Room
Featuring 11 pieces from the Elizabeth H. Paul, Class of 1964, Collection of PA German Fraktur. Selections on exhibit feature decorative motifs such as birds, hearts, and biblical symbols. Fraktur, a distinctive printed art form developed by Pennsylvania-German communities is known for sharp Gothic lettering and bright colors. Fraktur prints were often used to document important life events like births and baptisms. The exhibit also provides information about the artists, printing methods, and cultural traditions behind the works. Visitors can create their own fraktur certificates using stamps featuring designs from the collection.
Fraktur-ing the Family will be on display in the Special Collections Reading Room through May 2027, it was curated by Riley Yorke, Class of 2026, and the 2025-2026 Tricia Smelter Intern.