A Mathematical Recreation for All Ages – Paper Folding Comes to American Mathematics

Time: 6:00 p. m. to 8:00 p.m.

Location: DEVON ROOM, SECOND FLOOR OF THE CONNELLY CENTER, Villanova University, Villanova, PA

We begin with conversation and a light supper (donation: $10.00). Due to the new location the dinner will be provided by the University catering services.

When the discussion lags, about 6:30 to 6:45, Peggy Kidwell of the Smithsonian Institute will speak on:

A Mathematical Recreation for All Ages – Paper Folding Comes to American Mathematics

In the nineteenth century, paper folding was introduced as a topic for children in the newly introduced kindergartens. At the same time, both questions about the foundations of geometry and attempts to teach the subject to a wider array of students led to new views on geometry teaching, particularly in secondary schools. These trends came together in a small book by Sundara Rao, an Indian civil servant working for the British government in Madras. Rao’s Geometrical Exercises in Paper Folding appeared in 1893, and attracted the attention of the German mathematician Felix Klein. Mindful of Klein’s comments, mathematicians W. W. Beman and David Eugene Smith prepared an American edition of the book, published in 1901. The small volume remains in print to this day. This talk traces the roots of Rao’s work in Froebel’s kindergarten movement, considers the contents of his book, examines the contribution of Beman and Smith, and discusses mid-twentieth century popularization of paper folding under the name origami.

Directions: Villanova University is located on route 30, Lancaster Avenue, just east of I-476.

The construction which has been ongoing for the last several months is now finished. By agreement with the Parking Office, all parking will take place in the newly expanded SAC lot. All visitors are to use the gate on Ithan Avenue where your parking pass will be checked. I have attached a map of the campus to show where the Ithan Avenue entrance and the Connelly Center are located. I have also included a parking pass good for the upcoming meeting. This should be printed out and put on the windshield of your car. There will be a new pass for each meeting.

Public transportation: Take SEPTA's Paoli - Thorndale train to the Villanova station. If outbound from center city go down through the tunnel to the inbound side. From the inbound platform a few steps lead to the Mendel parking lot. The Connelly Center can be located with the help of the map provided.

You can get in touch with me (Alan Gluchoff) at 610-905-1376 if you need help.