Reenactments accompany library's Hamilton exhibit

His face is on the ten-dollar bill, but most Americans know more about his death in a duel than his remarkable life as one of the most brilliant and influential figures in U.S. history. Alexander Hamilton (1757-1804), the first U.S. Secretary of the Treasury at age 32, is the focus of a traveling exhibition on display at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., until Aug. 8.

"Alexander Hamilton: The Man Who Made Modern America" tells the story of Hamilton's astonishing rise in five short years from an orphaned, 15-year-old West Indies immigrant to George Washington's wartime aide, and later, at age 32, Washington's Secretary of the Treasury. The exhibit is based on the New-York Historical Society's exhibition commemorating the 200th anniversary of Hamilton's death.

To accompany the Hamilton Exhibit, the Racine Public Library will host a special late 1700's era living history reenactment, clothing and medical display on Saturday, July 26 from 1:30-4:30 p.m. in the Adult Services Dept.

On Friday, Aug. 1, from 1-4:30 p.m., the library will host A Soldier's Life, a presentation featuring historical reenactment and artifact displays. Entertainment will be provided through a special performance by Colonel Webb's 3rd Connecticut Band of Musick and Heritage Dauncers.

The exhibit and all associated programs are free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. For more information contact Anne Callaghan by email or by phone at 262.636.9245.