Local History Is Well-Served By Elizabeth Sulock

Senior citizens often express concerns that the younger generations are not aware of or interested in local, national and world history as they prefer to bury their heads in their phones rather than read books about events and people of the past. This certainly is not an issue in Newport, especially at The Newport Historical Society, and the considerable efforts of the society's Elizabeth Sulock to showcase local history to people of all ages now has been recognized throughout Rhode Island.

As the curator of living history at the historical society, Sulock has been named one of Providence Business News’ “40 Under Forty” for 2019. Each year, the publication celebrates 40 people under forty years of age who are engaged in exemplary work throughout the state.

“…Accomplishment can come in waves,” said Mark S. Murphy, editor, Providence Business News, “but mostly it comes when people with talent apply themselves with their hearts fully engaged in the enterprise at hand. …. when you see [this year’s winners], you should keep in mind that their personal best bodes well for them, as well as for Rhode Island.”

Sulock was selected by the publication for her creative work in living history. For 10 years, she has created and designed immersive costumed interpretation at society properties and has collaborated with the Rhode Island Historical Society and the Redwood Library & Athenaeum to develop large-scale reenactments and other events for the public. These events teach local history and engage all generations.

With other staff, Sulock conceived the idea of “History Space” that seeks to support the field of public history through education and demonstration. This work produces high-quality living history programs and events, including reenactments such as the impact on Newport of the colonial stamp act, traditional trade and craft demonstrations, and workshops. Seminars assist practitioners of public history and inform the public about topics and issues in the field.

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Mike Virgintino is the author of Freedomland U.S.A.: The Definitive History, the story about America's theme park located in The Bronx. Published by Theme Park Press, it can be found on Amazon, eBay and Goodreads.