CLINTON — Bigelow Free Public Library, 54 Walnut St., will present a series of Revolutionary War programs from March through May, funded by the Friends of the Bigelow Library in partnership with Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area.
The series begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, with “Calligraphy that Inspired a Nation: Learn to Write Like America’s Founders.” Calligrapher Debby Reelitz will discuss the tools used in 1776 to pen the Declaration of Independence, and participants will try writing with dip nib and ink.
Historical interpreter Michele Gabrielson presents “The Role of the Press in the American Revolution” at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15, an interactive program featuring 18th-century material culture and exploring typesetting, printing and propaganda in the years leading to the war.
Living history interpreter Audrey Stuck-Girard offers “All About Tea during Early America” at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22, brewing 18th-century tea with antique wares while discussing its impact on cultural traditions, global trade and revolutionary politics in the colonies.
Foodways historian and reenactor Stacy Booth follows at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 29 with “New England Cooking in Support of the Continental Army,” examining how Massachusetts housewives provisioned troops and used food to protest taxation and British policies.
At 6:30 p.m., on Wednesday, May 13, patrons can attend “A Personal Conversation in Martha Washington’s Bedchamber,” an interactive program in which Sandy Spector portrays Martha Washington in 1784, sharing family news, reflecting on her husband’s role in the developing nation and highlighting historic clothing.
The series concludes at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20 with reenactors Steven and Bronya Joanis presenting an immersive look at the life of a Revolutionary War soldier. The program will compare early militia gear with later Continental Army equipment, including that of Colonel Bailey’s 2nd Massachusetts Regiment, with clothing, weapons and field gear on display.
“The Bigelow Library is thrilled to have so many enthusiastic historians, artisans, and reenactors available for this series,” said Marie Letarte, Bigelow Free Public Library director. “History is so much more interesting when it’s personal, not just dates and battles. We consider it part of our mission to make these kind of events available to the public and we hope to see a full house each night!”
For more information, or to register for these programs, visit bigelowlibrary.org, call 978-365-4160, or visit the library. Hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The building is ADA-accessible via an elevator at the rear.
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