Before my adventure at the Sixth Floor Museum, I had a couple other adventures. First was at the Dallas Public Library. You may not think there are many adventures to be had at the library other than those found in the books, but you are wrong, especially if you’re a fan of historical stuff or art. On the 7th floor of the Dallas Central Library are two permanent exhibits and it looked like space for several other rotating exhibits.
We were short on time since we were headed to the Sixth Floor Museum, but we were already downtown and took advantage of seeing what we could, especially since our earlier attempt had been thwarted by new library hours several months ago.
The goal of our adventure was to see the “lost copy” of the Declaration of Independence. This is one of the original set that was printed in 1776 in John Dunlap’s print shop in Philadelphia.
It is in extremely good condition, in my opinion, rivaling the copy on display in the National Archives. It is called the lost copy because it was lost until 1968 when it was found in the basement of Leary’s Bookstore in Philadelphia.
Another treasure found on the 7th floor is just down the hall from the Declaration. In a display designed to look like a wood-paneled room from Elizabethan England, Shakespeare’s First Folio is on display. This is one of the 250 surviving original copies of Mr. William Shakespeare’s Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies printed in 1623.
This is considered one of the most important books of the English language. Because this book was printed, Shakespeare’s great works were preserved for generations.
The library also has an extensive art collection and Texas history collection on display. This was an exciting, quick adventure in an everyday, very unassuming place. Check your local libraries for special displays and exhibitions of historic artifacts and/or art. The exhibitions are generally free and open during library hours that usually extend far beyond your regular museum hours.
On our way to the Sixth Floor Museum, we also experienced the JFK Memorial Plaza behind the Old Red Courthouse/Museum. It is a very interesting piece of modern art.
Across the street, we also walked through Founders’ Plaza where there is a small log cabin. Unfortunately, there is no plaque or information telling visitors why there is a log cabin in the middle of the city. It is very misleading since it is neither original to that location or to the founder of Dallas from what I understand about it. This plaza also has fountains on during the summer that look like they are representing the Trinity River, but once again, there is nothing to educate the visitor what it’s all about.
I would love to hear about your adventures, so when you have one, be sure to post your comment or send me a message. Adventure is out there, so go have one!
