Celebrating #250America: Uncovering Revolutionary Secrets at the Library
As we gear up for the #250America celebrations, the library is thrilled to host two captivating historical lectures this March. Join us as we dive into the untold stories of the birth of our nation, from the Granite State’s boldest soldiers to the brilliant Massachusetts woman who helped draft the blueprint for American liberty.
Redcoats and Rebels: New Hampshire’s Role in the Revolution
Monday, March 4 at 6:00 PM | Speaker: Mary Adams, NH Historical Society (Snow date, March 10)
New Hampshire’s revolutionary spirit was ignited long before the summer of 1776. Our state signed its own Declaration of Independence in January of that year, leading the way six months before the Continental Congress followed suit. Even the legend of Paul Revere has a local twist: his famous “Midnight Ride” was actually his second, following an earlier mission to Portsmouth to warn of British troop movements.
During this presentation, Mary Adams will delve into these fascinating accounts and the bravery of the New Hampshire soldiers who made up two-thirds of the forces at the Battle of Bunker Hill. These men fought under the leadership of General John Stark, the man who later gave us our iconic state slogan, “Live Free or Die.” This program is made possible by a grant from New Hampshire Humanities and is free and open to the public.
The Muse of the Revolution: Mercy Otis Warren
Tuesday, March 24 at 6:00 PM | Speaker: Kelsie Eckert, Plymouth State University (snow date: March 26)
While New Hampshire soldiers fought on the front lines, thinkers in neighboring Massachusetts were fighting with the power of the pen. Mercy Otis Warren was a formidable poet, playwright, and pamphleteer whose intellectual contributions were vital to the American cause across all of New England. She was a key influence in the development of the Bill of Rights and broke new ground in 1805 by publishing the first comprehensive history of the American Revolution.
We are honored to welcome Professor Kelsie Eckert to discuss Warren’s incredible life work and enduring legacy. As the Executive Director of the Remedial Herstory Project and the State Coordinator for National History Day in New Hampshire, Professor Eckert brings a wealth of expertise to this look at one of the most influential women of the founding era.
Join the Conversation
History comes alive when we share these stories together. Both programs are free to attend, and we encourage you to register in advance to secure your seat for these two fascinating evenings of discovery. We look forward to seeing you there!