Yager Museum Opens “The Presence of Poe” February 26

The Yager Museum of Art & Culture at Hartwick College opens its latest exhibition, “The Presence of Poe: The Life & Legacy of a Literary Icon,” with a reception on Thursday, Feb. 26, from 5 to 7 p.m. The exhibition kicks off a series of programs at Hartwick College exploring the life, work and cultural impact of Edgar Allan Poe, culminating in the 2026 Babcock Lecture on Thursday, Mar. 26.

“The Presence of Poe” features first printings of some of Poe’s best-known fiction, including “The Mask of the Red Death” and “The Murders in the Rue Morgue.” Illustrated editions of Poe’s works, such as Gustave Doré’s depiction of “The Raven,” and examples of the sources for Poe’s stories are included. Poe-inspired works by authors including Arthur Conan Doyle and H. P. Lovecraft will also be on display.

Poe’s influence on popular culture in the 20th and 21st centuries may be seen in examples of pulp fiction, films and even toys inspired by his work. Also featured will be studies by Hartwick Professor Stefanie Rocknak for her sculpture, “Poe Returning to Boston,” which is on display on Edgar Allan Poe Square.

The reception is open to the public and refreshments will be served. “The Presence of Poe” will remain on view through May 16, 2026.

The museum is open to the public Tuesdays through Saturdays, 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. when the College is in session. Admission is free. For further information, contact Quentin Lewis, museum curator, at 607-431-4481 or [email protected] or Douglas Kendall, museum director, at 607-431-4423 or [email protected].