Edward Sutliff Brainard: From Christening Gown to Army Uniform is a current exhibit at the Sutliff Museum honoring Edward because of his service to his country during the First World War. His christening gown is long and beautifully embroidered, as a Victorian christening gown should be. The army uniform, like the one he wore near the end of his short life, is from the First World War. Suits for a toddler and a teen-ager and a duster worn for rides in his family’s first automobiles trace the styles and way of life of a Victorian boy.

Photographs and excerpts from his mother’s diary tell the story of a smart child who owned his own pony, went away to a prestigious prep school, studied at Columbia University in New York City, enlisted in the Army, served his country doing research during World War I, then tragically died at age 22 during the Great Influenza Epidemic of 1918.

An endowment in his memory, provided by his grieving mother and aunt, is still buying books for young people in the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library today. His portrait hangs in the hallway of the Library, just outside the Museum that honors his family. The public is invited to view the exhibit, the portrait and many artifacts of his life and times at the Sutliff Museum from 2 to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday afternoons. Tours at other times may be arranged by calling 330-399-8807, ext. 121. The Museum, which is free and fully accessible, is operated by The Warren Library Association.

Sally Thomas
Curator of the Sutliff Museum