“Some Thoughts About Victorian Furniture” Lecture by Rick Parker

Step into the elegance of the Victorian era for a special evening at Peel Museum & Botanical Garden.

Join Conservation Specialist Rick Parker on Saturday, July 25 at 6:30 p.m. at Peel Museum & Botanical Garden for an engaging lecture exploring the craftsmanship, beauty, and history of Victorian furniture.

Rick played an important role in the museum’s original restoration in the 1990s and continues to lend his expertise to conservation projects within the historic house today. During this special presentation, he will highlight the defining styles and design elements that made Victorian furniture so distinctive, while sharing behind-the-scenes stories from several pieces he has personally restored over his remarkable career.

Guests will also have the rare opportunity to view authentic Victorian chairs from Rick’s personal collection, brought in specifically for the evening. Seeing these historic pieces up close offers a unique glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of the 19th century.

Rick is the owner of Parker Conservation, Inc. in Gentry, Arkansas, and brings more than 46 years of experience in fine and decorative arts conservation. He studied at John Brown University and completed graduate work through the Smithsonian Institution’s Furniture Conservation Training Program. Over the course of his career, he has worked on historic objects from renowned sites including the White House, Mount Vernon, Monticello, Biltmore Estate, and the William J. Clinton Presidential Library.

Drinks will be available during the event for guests to enjoy before and after the lecture, though beverages will not be permitted inside the museum spaces in order to protect the historic interiors and artifacts.

Spots are limited, so be sure to register early to secure your place for this fascinating evening of history, craftsmanship, and conservation.