The classroom located on the second floor of Drew University’s Methodist Archives transformed into the restricted section of the Hogwarts library on Wednesday, Oct. 27. Classic ‘Harry Potter’ ambiance, novelties and tools for making wands filled the classroom, with several Drewids sporting Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw gear.
Harry Potter wand-making was hosted by the Archives as part of their Halloween events in collaboration with the Drew Seminar, entitled “The Psychology of ‘Harry Potter’” taught by Professor Jill Cermele.
“I love Halloween and we do Halloween really big in the Archives,” Manager of Special Collections Candace Reilly said. “It’s just been a fun time working with Jill Cermele and trying to spread the love of the Archives and showcase ‘Harry Potter’ material.”
Supplies available included sticks from The Forest, paint, hot glue guns, glitter and twine. Participants were encouraged to hot glue designs onto sticks and then decorate their “wands.”
Wand-making was not the first collaboration of the Archives and ‘Harry Potter’ DSEM. The Archives showcase their rare book materials and ‘Harry Potter’-related decorations for the class to visit once a semester.
The event was open to all students, not exclusively fans of the franchise.
Attendee Kayla Anthony (‘23) has yet to watch ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2′, but identifies herself as a fan. “When I was a kid I wasn’t really into [‘Harry Potter’], but more recently I’ve been getting into it,” she said. Despite not yet having completed the movie series, she said the event was a “really great idea.”
Juliete LaVigne (‘23), whose parents read her the book series when she was younger, said the event was also a blast for long-time Potterheads.
“I like how easy it is,” she said of the event. “You can paint, and it’s just fun without anything that makes me think too hard.”
The Archives are also hosting Ghost Tours as part of their Halloween events. Those interested can visit the Methodist Archives Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to handle their ‘Harry Potter’ material or check out haunteddrew.com for ghost stories in the spirit of Halloween.
