Join us here at Compass Inn Museum on February 27, 2025 for the start of our ‘Fireside Chats’ Series titled Fanology- The Secret Language of a Fan, Fact or Fiction!

Hand fans have existed since antiquity. However, fans were a staple in 18th and 19th-century women’s wardrobes; some say these accessories were also useful social tools. Women used fans as extensions of their body language to express certain emotions without speaking. Affluent young women were taught the correct ways to manipulate a fan as part of good manners. You, too, can learn the secret language of the fan with Theresa Gay Rohall, Executive Director of Ligonier Valley Historical Society and Compass Inn Museum. She will share key phrases and moves used to communicate like the characters in Jane Austen’s much-loved novels. Then you can decide whether these moves and phrases to introduce yourself, flirt a bit, or just get that annoying suitor to leave you alone are fact or fiction.

During this Fireside Chat, you will decorate a paper/wood hand fan to practice the moves and phrases Theresa shares. All materials and light refreshments will be provided.

Tickets are avalible for purchase in advance on our website for $16 or in person day of event for $20. Due to limited space, the ‘Chats’ are recommended for adults only.