Sippican Historical Society’s new exhibit, “In Her World: The Life & Legacy of Elizabeth Taber,” opened on Friday, October 10 and will be viewable until next spring. The exhibit showcases much of the history of Elizabeth Pitcher Taber, the altruistic woman who donated much to the development of the Town of Marion and its institutions. Many of the town’s most notorious buildings draw their origin to Taber, including Tabor Academy, the Elizabeth Taber Library, the Congressional Chapel, the Marion Town House, the Marion Music Hall, and many others.
Containing many artifacts from Taber’s home and life, the exhibit, presented in the historical society’s Ellis Gallery facing Front Street, showcases the times and life of the town’s important historic benefactor. A chair from one of her homes, a diatonic button accordion, some local maps, a doll and doll bed, and a collection of books from her home, including hymns, poems, and even One Thousand and One Nights.
There are also a reproduction of an oil painting portrait and examples of her signature through the years. The first showcased signature originates from some time before 1872, having her last name spelt “Taber” with an “E.” Around 1880, signing a diploma, she signed her name “Tabor,” with an “O.” Why did she change? Sippican Historical Society Executive Director Alanna Nelson explained, “Well, we’re not really sure.” At some point around 1880, she just began signing her name differently. This led to the strange difference between sites in town, like “Tabor” Academy and “Taber” Library.
Though she died 137 years ago at the age of 97, Elizabeth Taber’s legacy is present all over town and, for a few months more, can be further inspected and learned of in the Sippican Historical Society.
Sippican Historical Society: In Her World Exhibit
By Sam Bishop