The Wellesley Historical Society has released its lecture series schedule for 2017-2018. Enjoy…
Steam Titans
Sunday, October 29, 2017
2:00 p.m.
William Fowler, professor of history at Northeastern University, will discuss his latest book on the epic battle between the United States and Great Britain to dominate commerce in the North Atlantic. The two nations and their leading shipping companies competed vigorously from the early days of steam right up until the American Civil War to see who would be bigger, better, and faster.
Wellesley and Mount Auburn Cemetery
Sunday, November 19, 2017, 2:00 p.m.
Kathleen Fahey, curator of the Wellesley Historical Society, will discuss the history of Mount Auburn Cemetery and the lives of some famous Wellesley residents who are buried there. She will include such well-known denizens of our town as H.H. Hunnewell, Henry Fowle Durant, Gamaliel Bradford, and more.
The History of the Back Bay
Thursday, March 8, 2018, 7pm
Well-known local author and historian, Anthony Sammarco, will discuss the history of Boston’s Back Bay from its origins as tidal wetlands to its transformation into the most elegant and desirable neighborhood in Boston in the late 19th Century.
The History of the U.S.S. Constitution
Thursday, April 5, 2018, 7pm
Robert Allison, Professor of History at Suffolk University, will discuss the history of the U.S.S. Constitution, the oldest warship still in commission in the world. He will focus on Old Ironsides’ early days fighting the Barbary Pirates and then the British in the War of 1812. He will also discuss her trip around the world in the 1840s.
The History of Fenway Park
Thursday, May 17, 2018, 7pm
Richard Johnson, Curator of the Boston Sports Museum and author of several books on local teams, will discuss the history of the oldest (and best-loved) ballpark in the major leagues. He will discuss Fenway Park’s role over the years as a multi-sport venue and its lesser known history as host of political rallies and other important events.
