Have you ever wondered why ladies once carried fans? Were handbags as important to women long ago as they are today? On Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m., the Warwick Historical Society will present a talk called Fans, Parasols and Reticules at the Warwick Public Library that will touch on just those points. Society representatives will bring examples of these items from their collection to share with attendees. This event is in memory of the late Maureen Callahan, past president of the Warwick Historical Society and one of its most enthusiastic supporters.

Parasols were considered necessary during a time when fashion decreed that fair skin was preferable to a tan. Early handbags and purses were called reticules. Fans were certainly helpful during hot weather in an era before air conditioning but additionally were considered an important part of courtship. The “language of fans” included a variety of flirtatious techniques.

Attendees are invited to bring any antique fans or other accessories of their own to share.

The headquarters of the Warwick Historical Society is the John Waterman Arnold House at 25 Roger Williams Circle. This historic farmhouse holds an extraordinary collection of artifacts that the society maintains. This event is one of several held with the Warwick Public Library to share historic information about Warwick with the community.

The Library is located at 600 Sandy Lane. This program is free but reservations are necessary. Call 739-5440, ext. 126 to register or register online at the library Web site at www.warwicklibrary.org.