All the events listed in the Calendar are funded in whole or part by the New Hampshire Humanities Council.

Please use this map to locate programs being held in your area. Complete descriptions are listed chronologically by clicking on a region on the map.

Click here to view our events in a monthly calendar format.

October 2008

October 1 Statewide Wednesday, 9 a.m., New Hampshire Public Radio
What is Forgiveness?
NHPR’s The Exchange will continue its Socrates Radio discussion series with a conversation on the nature of forgiveness. Can we truly forgive? What are the key features of forgiveness? Is forgiving always a virtue, or can it be a sign of weakness or lack of self-respect? Are we ever required to forgive? Are some wrongs unforgivable? Does it make sense to talk about groups forgiving? Listen live or via streaming audio.

October 1 Bedford Wednesday, Noon, Bedford Presbyterian Church
Women’s Issues in Russia
This look inside Russia today with St. Petersburg native Marina Forbes focuses on changes in the status of women within Russian society during the post-Soviet era. Gender inequality in the workplace, careers and entrepreneurial opportunities, unemployment, discrimination, education, poverty, single mothers, child care, health care, crimes against women and domestic abuse are among the issues to be addressed. Hosted by the Women’s Fellowship and Ministry Circle of the Bedford Presbyterian Church. Contact: Arla Bain, 472-6917

October 1 Thornton Wednesday, 7 p.m., Thornton Town Hall
Banjos, Bones and Ballads
Traditional songs, rich in local history and a sense of place, present the latest news from the distant past. They help us to interpret present-day life with an understanding of the working people who built our country. Tavern songs, banjo tunes, 18th-century New England hymns, sailor songs, and humorous stories about traditional singers and their songs highlight this informative program. Jeff Warner presents this program which is hosted by the Thornton Historical Society. Contact: Sally Kriebel, 726-3596

October 1 Lee Wednesday, 7 p.m., Public Safety Complex, 20 George Bennet Road
Wacky Songs That Made Us Laugh
Ever wanted to laugh in church or at the library? We all need comic relief, and songs provide some of the best, sometimes unintentionally. Follow the evolution of humorous song from the 1920s to the present. Calvin Knickerbocker presents this program which is co-hosted by the Lee Public Library and the Lee Historical Society. Contact: Lisa Morin, 659-2626

October 1 Hollis Wednesday, 7:30 p.m., Hollis Social Library
Growing Up by Russell Baker
This is the first in a two-part book discussion series titled “Working: Making a Living, Making a Life.” In this memoir, Baker traces his youth in the mountains of rural Virginia. When he was five his father died and his strong-willed mother never looked back. She was determined that her children would succeed, and her determination worked for Baker. He did everything from delivering papers to hustling subscriptions for the Saturday Evening Post and in his view these early hardships made the man. This month’s discussion is led by Julia DeStefano.
Contact: Mary Ann Wesoly, 465-2411

October 2 Nashua Thursday, 2 p.m., Nashua Public Library
NH Humanities Council Public Forum
Nashua-area non-profit organizations and community groups are invited to join us and learn more about funding opportunities and programs available through the Humanities Council. Call 224-4071 for more information or to RSVP.

October 2 Newbury Thursday, 4 p.m., The Fells
From Parlor to Stage: Lake Sunapee’s Musical Celebrities in the Gilded Age
Enjoy a musical journey through the Gilded Age showing how life at Lake Sunapee was significant to the development of American music. Fern Meyers will share important musical events, eyewitness accounts and samples of period music. Meyers is a music scholar, lecturer and author specializing in the history of the Cornish Colony. She is a cellist who has recorded a number of classical music CDs. This event is part of the “Hosting Our Summer Guests” project by Partners Around Lake Sunapee. It is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Contact: 763-4789 x3 or visit the Fells' website.

October 2 Gilford Thursday, 7 p.m., Gilford Public Library
Ten Hours Until Dawn
During the height of the Blizzard of 1978, the pilot boat Can Do, with five men on board, set out from Gloucester to assist a lost Coast Guard boat and an oil tanker in a mayday situation. Find out what happened on that awful night when seas became skyscrapers and 100 mile per hour winds battered New England. Michael Tougias presents this program. Contact: Betty Tidd, 524-6042

October 2 Peterborough Thursday, 7 p.m., Peterborough Town Library
Iraq and the Middle East: America at a Crossroads
Glen Swanson provides an overview of the United States’ history of involvement in Iraq and poses major questions for audience discussion concerning current and future strategies for dealing with Iraq and the entire region’s uncertain future. Contact: Michael Price, 924-8040

October 3 Concord Friday, 7 p.m., Pleasant View Retirement
Susan B. Anthony: The Invincible!
Susan B. Anthony, abolitionist and suffragist, is busy circulating petitions, getting arrested, and challenging legislators. Sally Matson portrays Anthony in this living history program. Matson reveals Anthony’s righteous fury, her wit and her courage as she interacts with Frederick Douglass, Horace Greeley, Lucy Stone, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and other leaders of the abolitionist and suffrage movements. Letters, speeches, and diaries highlight Matson’s presentation as she brings Anthony to life in a riveting performance. Contact: Mary Ladd, 223-3505

October 5 Nashua Sunday, 2 p.m., Hunt Memorial Building
The Clash of Civilizations: Myth or Reality?
This exploration of the complex religio-political interaction among the followers of Islam, Judaism, Catholicism, and Christian Orthodoxy in the Balkans during the past millennium concludes with a consideration of the current situation and America’s role as peacemaker and power broker. Glen W. Swanson presents this program. Contact: Elaine Griffiths, 889-7980

October 6 Portsmouth Monday, 1 p.m., New Hampshire Theatre Project
Grant Workshop
Seacoast-area non-profits are invited to attend this workshop on Humanities Council grant programs and how to apply. Grants Officer Rick Agran will offer an overview of the Council’s grant application process and discuss your ideas for specific projects. This workshop is free, but pre-registration is required. RSVP to Sue Butman at 224-4071 or by e-mail.

October 7 Merrimack Tuesday, 7 p.m., Merrimack Public Library
Just Like a Tumbleweed
Letters, diaries, and reminiscences lead to a rich store of knowledge about childhood experiences in the American West. Interspersed with stories of the children of homesteaders and gold seekers are stories that reflect the multi-cultural nature of a region shared by children of the Indians, Hispanics, Asians, and Blacks for whom the frontier was also home. Linda Peavy and Ursula Smith present this program. Contact: Ellen Knowlton, 424-5021

October 7 Laconia Tuesday, 7 p.m., Laconia Public Library
As We Are Now by May Sarton
This is the first in a three-part book discussion series titled “Caring For Our Elders.” Caroline Spencer, a retired teacher, has suffered a heart attack and been deposited by relatives in a nursing home. Subjected to subtle humiliations and petty cruelties, she fights back with all she has, and, in a powerful climax, wins a terrible victory. This month’s discussion is led by Maren Tirabassi. Contact: Deborah Ross, 524-4775 x15

October 9 Hill Thursday, 7 p.m., Jennie Blake School
Native American History of New Hampshire
The Pennacook Indians of the Merrimack Valley were the most powerful coalition of native people on the northern New England frontier during the 17th and 18th centuries. During this time, Indians and colonists exchanged and encountered each other’s cultures, religions, trade goods, and even kinship. David Stewart-Smith presents this program which is hosted by the Hill Historical Society. Contact: Phyllis Kerkawich, 934-7194

October 9 Colebrook Thursday, 7 p.m., Colebrook Elementary School
Covered Bridges of New Hampshire
Covered bridges have been a vital part of the NH transportation network, dating back to the early 1800s. Often viewed as relics of a simpler past, they were the technological marvels of their day. Presented by Glenn Knoblock and hosted by the Colebrook Area Historical Society. Contact: David Collins, 746-2229

October 10 Whitefield Friday, White Mountains Regional High School
North Country Professional Development Day
For more information, e-mail info@aannh.org or call 323-7302.

October 10 Moultonborough Friday, 7 p.m., Moultonborough Library
New Hampshire Gravestones
Explore the development of colonial New England traditions through a series of vignettes on New Hampshire burying grounds and cemeteries such as the Point of Graves in Portsmouth, the Derry and Chester Scotch-Irish burying grounds, and Concord’s rural cemetery. David Watters, UNH, presents this program which is co-hosted by the Moultonborough Historical Society. Contact: Marie Randolph, 253-4038

October 13 Charlestown Monday, 6:30 p.m., Silsby Free Public Library
New Hampshire Cemeteries and Gravestones
Rubbings, photographs, and slides illustrate the rich variety of gravestones to be found in our own neighborhoods, but they also tell long-forgotten stories of the Great Awakening, the Throat Distemper epidemic, and the American Revolution. Glenn Knoblock explains how to read these stone “pages” that give insight into the vast genealogical book of New Hampshire in this program which is co-hosted by the Charlestown Historical Society. Contact: Sandra Perron, 826-7793

October 13 Washington Monday, 7:30 p.m., Camp Morgan Lodge
The Revolutionary War in New Hampshire
No battles were fought in New Hampshire during the Revolutionary War, yet the war affected the state in multiple ways. Jere Daniell, Dartmouth College, will spell out the social, economic and political consequences of that war.
Contact: Jim Crandall, 495-3416

October 14 Effingham Tuesday, 6 p.m., Effingham Public Library
Here if You Need Me by Kate Braestrup
This book discussion is part of the One Book, One Valley project. Contact: 447-5552

October 14 Bartlett Tuesday, 7 p.m., Bartlett Public Library
A Taste for Death by P.D. James
A Taste for Death is no ordinary murder mystery, as P.D. James devotees know. Rightfully renowned for her masterful plots, complex characters and intelligent themes, Baroness James reaches what one reviewer called “the zenith of her writing career” with this page-turner about Scotland Yard’s Adam Dalgliesh and Kate Miskin investigating a murder-suicide. This discussion is led by Ingrid Graff. Contact: Jackie Hamblet, 374-2755

October 15 Berlin Wednesday, Noon, White Mountain Community College
Grant Workshop
North Country non-profits are invited to attend this workshop on Humanities Council grant programs and how to apply. Grants Officer Rick Agran will offer an overview of the Council’s grant application process and discuss your ideas for specific projects. This workshop is free, but pre-registration is required. RSVP to Sue Butman at 224-4071 or by e-mail.

October 15 Greenland Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Weeks Public Library
A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle
The first of the stories about the Great Detective Sherlock Holmes, the reader - along with Watson - is introduced to Holmes’ eccentricities and his uncanny gift of deduction. In solving a bizarre murder, Holmes outwits Scotland Yard, baffles a dazzled Watson, and begins the most famous partnership in crime detection. This discussion is led by Paul Goodwin.
Contact: Denise Grimse, 436-8548

October 15 North Hampton Wednesday, 7 p.m., No. Hampton Public Library
No More Words by Reeve Lindbergh
In 1999 Anne Morrow Lindbergh, the famed aviator and author, moved from her home in Connecticut to the farm in Vermont where her daughter, Reeve, and Reeve’s family live. Mrs. Lindbergh was in her nineties and had been rendered nearly speechless years earlier by a series of small strokes that also left her frail and dependent on others for her care. No More Words is a moving and compassionate memoir of the final seventeen months of Anne Morrow Lindbergh’s life. This discussion is led by Holly Perrault, UNH. Contact: Susan Grant, 964-6326

October 15 Madison Wednesday, 7 p.m., Madison Library
Search and Rescue in New Hampshire’s Forests
This talk and slideshow is part of the One Book, One Valley project. Contact: 447-5552

October 15 Berlin Wednesday, 7 p.m., Berlin Fortier Library, WMCC
The Lady and the Unicorn by Tracy Chevalier
This book discussion is part of a grant-funded series conducted jointly by the Fortier and Berlin Public Libraries titled “Paint, Marble and Words: Fiction and Art.” Nicolas des Innocent is summoned to the Paris home of Jean Le Viste, a nobleman who wants Nicolas to design a series of battle tapestries for his house. Jean’s wife, Geneviève, persuades Nicolas to talk her husband into a softer subject: the taming of a unicorn by a noblewoman. Several story strands are woven together through the design and making of these complex, seductive tapestries. This month’s discussion is led by Frumie Selchen. Contact: 752-1113

October 16 Wilmot Thursday, 7 p.m., Wilmot Public Library
Sennett, Chaplin, Keaton & the Art of Silent Comedy
During the first decades of the 20th century, film had its birth in silence. The social and cultural history of the US is reflected in the celluloid strips that captured it, especially as the art was developed by these three filmmakers. Patrick Anderson, Colby-Sawyer College, presents this program. Contact: Rosanna Dude, 526-6804

October 16 Hillsboro Thursday, 7 p.m., Community Hall
After Frost: Poetry in New England
This discussion of New England poetry is hosted by the Fuller Public Library and led by Martha Carlson-Bradley. Contact: Robin Sweetser, 464-3595

October 16 Dover Thursday, 7 p.m., Dover Public Library
The Shaker Legacy
In their more than two-and-a-quarter centuries of existence as a religion, members of the United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing, commonly known as Shakers, made ingenious contributions to diverse fields: agriculture, industry, medicine, music, furniture design, women’s rights, racial equality, craftsmanship, social and religious thought, and mechanical invention and improvement. Darryl Thompson presents this program which is hosted by the Dover Historical Society. Contact: Barbara Elkerton, 742-2726

October 16 Nashua Thursday, 7 p.m., Nashua Public Library
Susan B. Anthony: The Invincible!
Susan B. Anthony, abolitionist and suffragist, is busy circulating petitions, getting arrested, and challenging legislators. Sally Matson portrays Anthony in this living history program. Matson reveals Anthony’s righteous fury, her wit and her courage as she interacts with Frederick Douglass, Horace Greeley, Lucy Stone, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and other leaders of the abolitionist and suffrage movements. Letters, speeches, and diaries highlight Matson’s presentation as she brings Anthony to life in a riveting performance. Contact: Carol Luers Eyman, 589-4610

October 16 Salem Thursday, 7 p.m., Kelley Library
A Night of Music with Two Old Friends
Using the concertina, bodhran, mandolin, octave mandolin, guitar, and banjo in their performances, Mac McHale and Emery Hutchins sing traditional Irish songs and play traditional tunes. They perform American country music in the way it was conceived in the early twentieth century and demonstrate how these tunes are often influenced by other cultural and ethnic groups (particularly African-American) to create an original American sound. Contact: Deborah Berlin, 898-7064

October 20 Somersworth Monday, 1:30 p.m., Fillion Terrace Senior Center
Wacky Songs That Made Us Laugh
Ever wanted to laugh in church or at the library? We all need comic relief, and songs provide some of the best, sometimes unintentionally. Follow the evolution of humorous song from the 1920s to the present. Calvin Knickerbocker presents this program which is hosted by Somersworth Recreation Department. Contact: Darryl Cauchon, 692-9508

October 20 Concord Monday, 7 p.m., Concord Public Library
Sustainable Living and the Art of Memoir
This panel discussion is part of Concord Reads 2008. Panelists Maxine Kumin, Ron Jager, Edie Clark and Hillary Nelson will discuss memoir as it relates to pursuing a sustainable lifestyle. Contact: 225-8590 or visit the Concord Public Library website.

October 20 Conway Monday, 7 p.m., Conway Public Library
Widows in 18th Century New England
This lecture by Marcia Schmidt Blaine, Plymouth State University, is part of the One Book, One Valley project. Contact: 447-5552

October 21 Pembroke Tuesday, 7 p.m., Pembroke Library
Cannon Shenanigans & NH’s Muster Day Tradition
Muster Day was a day of drills, marching, and sham battles for local militias in New Hampshire. This spectator event was accompanied by entertainers, vendors, gamblers, and a great deal of alcohol. Jack Noon presents this program which is hosted by the Pembroke Historical Society. Contact: Pat Bonenfant, 485-2432

October 21 Andover Tuesday, 7 p.m., Masonic Building, Cilleyville Rd.
Digging Into Native History in New Hampshire
Abenaki history has been reduced to near-invisibility as the result of conquest, a conquering culture that placed little value on the Indian experience, and a strategy of self-preservation that required many Abenaki to go “underground,” concealing their true identity for generations to avoid discrimination and persecution. Archaeological evidence shows their deep presence here, inches below the earth’s surface. This program is presented by Robert Goodby, Franklin Pierce University, and hosted by the Andover Historical Society. Contact: Joanna Sumner, 735-5200

October 22 Manchester Wednesday, 5 p.m., Radisson Center of NH
NH Humanities Council 19th Annual Dinner
Ken Burns will offer a keynote address and present scenes from his new film on America’s National Parks at this gala event. Learn more. Contact: 224-4071

October 22 Wilton Wednesday, 7 p.m., Wilton Public - Gregg Free Library
New Hampshire’s International Perspective
It is not widely known that New Hampshire plays a role in global affairs through organizations as well as individuals. Glen W. Swanson explores the realms of international finance and business, war and diplomacy, and the fields of culture, education, refugee resettlement, and humanitarian aid. Contact: Carol Roberts, 654-2581

October 22 Tamworth Wednesday, 7 p.m., Cook Memorial Library
Here if You Need Me by Kate Braestrup
This book discussion is part of the One Book, One Valley project. Contact: 447-5552

October 23 Moultonborough Thursday, 10 a.m., Moultonborough Library
The Necklace by Guy de Maupassant
This is the second in a three part discussion of classic short stories and their film adaptations. This month’s discussion of de Maupassant’s tale of greed and mistaken duty is led by Sandra LeBeau, Colby-Sawyer Collge. Contact: Marie Randolph, 253-4038

October 23 North Conway Thursday, 7 p.m., White Birch Books
Here if You Need Me by Kate Braestrup
This book discussion is part of the One Book, One Valley project. Contact: 447-5552

October 23 Nashua Thursday, 10:45 a.m., Nashua Public Library
World Issues: Where is America Going? The Art and Arts of Diplomacy
Glen W. Swanson examines the art of diplomacy and current diplomatic issues. America exercises international negotiations primarily through military, political and economic means. What role can and should cultural means play? Hosted by the RISE Institute of Rivier College. Contact: Catherine Valley, 883-3577

October 23 Stratham Thursday, 6:30 p.m., Wiggin Memorial Library
Inside Russia Today
The fall of Soviet Communism catapulted Russia into a new social order. The “new rich,” the evolving role of women, the revival of the Orthodox Church, humor, family life, entertainment, and the emphasis on consumerism and tourism are all grist for the mill as Marina Forbes brings personal experience and research to bear in a close look at contemporary Russian life. Co-hosted by Great Bay Community College. Contact: Tricia Ryden, 772-4346

October 23 Manchester Thursday, 6:30 p.m., University Ctr., 400 Commercial St.
French-Canadian Music and Its Cross-Cultures
Learn about the migration of French-Canadians and the evolution of their traditional music: its arrival in North America from France; its crossing with Indian culture during the evangelization of Acadia and Quebec; its growth alongside English culture after British colonization; and its expansion from Acadia to Louisiana. Lucie Therrien presents this program which is hosted by UNH Manchester. Contact: Kim Wall, 641-4306

October 23 Piermont Thursday, 7 p.m., Old Church Building
Better Than a Poke in the Eye
Named “Thalia, Muse of Comedy” by New Hampshire Magazine, Rebecca Rule tells funny, true(ish) stories collected all over the state. Get the inside scoop on town meeting, and Perley’s dump sticker. Find out about Catherine’s battle with mosquitoes and what some folks think ought to be the new state motto. Hosted by the Piermont Public Library. Contact: Margaret Ladd, 272-4967

October 24 Portsmouth Friday, 2 p.m., Strawbery Banke Museum
Ink Chronicles: History Across Genre
This panel discussion is part of the New Hampshire Writers’ Project’s 2008 NH Writers’ Trail Portsmouth Literary Festival. Contact: 314-7980

October 25 Portsmouth Saturday, 10:30 a.m., Strawbery Banke Museum
History is Now: Discovering Portsmouth’s Black Heritage
This panel discussion is part of the New Hampshire Writers’ Project’s 2008 NH Writers’ Trail Portsmouth Literary Festival. Contact: 314-7980

October 25 Dover Saturday, 1 p.m., Wentworth Home
Witches, Pop Culture and the Past
“Hang her!” cries the raucous spectator. In 1692, 19 people were executed in Salem and hundreds imprisoned during a witch hunt we still discuss in and out of the classroom. When Salem tells its witch stories, history, tourism, and performance collide, and “truth,” both moral and macabre, vies with spooky thrills for its authentic place in history. Robin DeRosa, Plymouth State University, presents this program. Contact: Maura Byrne, 742-7406

October 25 Portsmouth Saturday, 2 p.m., Portsmouth Public Library
Speak Easy: From the Page to the Stage
This panel discussion is part of the New Hampshire Writers’ Project’s 2008 NH Writers’ Trail Portsmouth Literary Festival. Contact: 314-7980

October 27 Conway Monday, 10:15 a.m., Conway Public Library
Here if You Need Me by Kate Braestrup
This book discussion is part of the One Book, One Valley project. Contact: 447-5552

October 27 Freedom Monday, 10:30 a.m., Freedom Public Library
Here if You Need Me by Kate Braestrup
This book discussion is part of the One Book, One Valley project. Contact: 447-5552

October 27 Warner Monday, 6 p.m., Warner Town Hall
Better Than a Poke in the Eye
Named “Thalia, Muse of Comedy” by New Hampshire Magazine, Rebecca Rule tells funny, true(ish) stories collected all over the state. Get the inside scoop on town meeting, and Perley’s dump sticker. Find out about Catherine’s battle with mosquitoes and what some folks think ought to be the new state motto. Hosted by the Warner Men’s Club. Contact: Georg Edelmann, 456-6022

October 27 Madison Monday, 7 p.m., Madison Library
Here if You Need Me by Kate Braestrup
This book discussion is part of the One Book, One Valley project. Contact: 447-5552

October 28 Statewide Tuesday, 9 a.m., New Hampshire Public Radio
What is the Relationship between Money, Happiness, and a Good Life?
NHPR’s The Exchange will continue its Socrates Radio discussion series with a conversation on wealth and happiness. Our culture may tell us that personal wealth equals success, but most of us are suspicious of this. What is the relationship between money, happiness, and a good life? Is money, as some say, the root of all evil? Listen live or via streaming audio.

October 28 Rochester Tuesday, 9:30 a.m., Artstream, 56 North Main St.
Grant Workshop
Rochester-area non-profits are invited to attend this workshop on Humanities Council grant programs and how to apply. Grants Officer Rick Agran will offer an overview of the Council’s grant application process and discuss your ideas for specific projects. This workshop is free, but pre-registration is required. RSVP to Sue Butman at 224-4071 or by e-mail.

October 28 Jackson Tuesday, 4:30 p.m., Jackson Public Library
Here if You Need Me by Kate Braestrup
This book discussion is part of the One Book, One Valley project. Contact: 447-5552

October 28 New Boston Tuesday, 7 p.m., Whipple Free Library
A Great Deliverance by Elizabeth George
This is the first in a two-part book discussion series titled “Mysteries on Both Sides of the Pond.” Part detective story and part psychological thriller, this is George’s debut novel. A pair of Scotland Yard detectives, representing the upper and lower classes of British society, do not believe that the apparent perpetrator of a savage crime is guilty, in spite of her first and last words, “I did it. And I’m not sorry.” The truth will be found in the village’s tangled web of secrets, scandals, and horrendous crimes. This month’s discussion is led by Donna Decker. Contact: Pat Fickett, 487-3391

October 28 Marlborough Tuesday, 6:30 p.m., Frost Free Library
Better Than a Poke in the Eye
Named “Thalia, Muse of Comedy” by New Hampshire Magazine, Rebecca Rule tells funny, true(ish) stories collected all over the state. Get the inside scoop on town meeting, and Perley’s dump sticker. Find out about Catherine’s battle with mosquitoes and what some folks think ought to be the new state motto. Contact: Kathleen Ash, 876-4479

October 28 Chester Tuesday, 7 p.m., Stevens Memorial Hall
Witches, Pop Culture and the Past
“Hang her!” cries the raucous spectator. In 1692, 19 people were executed in Salem and hundreds imprisoned during a witch hunt we still discuss in and out of the classroom. When Salem tells its witch stories, history, tourism, and performance collide, and “truth,” both moral and macabre, vies with spooky thrills for its authentic place in history. Robin DeRosa, Plymouth State University, presents this program which is hosted by the Chester Historical Society. Contact: Hilary Hall, 206-4786

October 28 Bartlett Tuesday, 7 p.m., Bartlett Public Library
Search and Rescue in New Hampshire’s Forests
This talk and slideshow is part of the One Book, One Valley project. A book discussion on Kate Braestrup’s Here if You Need Me will follow. Contact: 447-5552

October 29 Goffstown Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Goffstown Public Library
New Hampshire Cemeteries and Gravestones
Rubbings, photographs, and slides illustrate the rich variety of gravestones to be found in our own neighborhoods, but they also tell long-forgotten stories of the Great Awakening, the Throat Distemper epidemic, and the American Revolution. Glenn Knoblock explains how to read these stone “pages” that give insight into the vast genealogical book of New Hampshire in this program. Contact: Sandy Whipple, 497-2102

October 29 Stratham Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Wiggin Memorial Library
Understanding Movies: The Art of Film
NOTE: The date for this event was changed by the organizers from Oct. 15
Film is a powerful medium, generating billions of dollars and untold hours of entertainment around the world. Understanding how film creates and delivers ideas and how it shapes and reflects popular attitudes adds to our appreciation of the cinematic experience. Increase your film vocabulary and have fun discussing movies together. Patrick Anderson, Colby-Sawyer College, presents this program which is co-hosted by Great Bay Community College. Contact: Tricia Ryden, 772-4346

October 29 Berlin Wednesday, 7 p.m., Fortier Library, WMCC
Art and Life in Vermeer
This program is part of a grant-funded series conducted jointly by the Fortier and Berlin Public Libraries titled “Paint, Marble and Words: Fiction and Art.” While the greatness of Vermeer’s work lies in the interplay of life and art, of daylight, paint, and the picture surface, the relationship changes fundamentally around the time he painted Girl with the Turban (subject of both a contemporary book and movie titled Girl with a Pearl Earring). Before this time “life” takes primacy over art; thereafter art assumes a higher reality, usually in the form of pictures within pictures. Examine a selection of Vermeer’s work with art historian David Smith, UNH. Contact: 752-1113

October 30 Rye Thursday, 7 p.m., Rye Public Library
New Hampshire Gravestones
Explore the development of colonial New England traditions through a series of vignettes on New Hampshire burying grounds and cemeteries such as the Point of Graves in Portsmouth, the Derry and Chester Scotch-Irish burying grounds, and Concord’s rural cemetery. David Watters, UNH, presents this program. Contact: Martha Jones, 964-8401

October 31 Stratham Friday, 12:45 p.m., Great Bay Community College Library
Bridging East and West: Islamic Art and Architecture
Take a virtual trip through Turkey, Egypt, southern Spain, Morocco, and other lands by viewing significant works of art and architecture with an historian who has traveled and lived in a number of Islamic cultures. Discover a new vocabulary and important cultural links between East and West. Katherine Hoffman, Saint Anselm College, presents this program which is co-hosted by the Wiggin Memorial Library. Contact: Rebecca Clerkin, 775-2214

November 2008

November 3 Warner Monday, 10:30 a.m., United Church of Warner
That Reminds Me of a Story: Yankee Humor and the New England Storytelling Tradition
Good stories never die, they evolve from teller to teller. New England has a rich and ongoing storytelling tradition from folklore to “Bert and I” to stories about your family, your life, or the town you live in. Humorist Rebecca Rule will prime the pump with stories she’s collected at small-town gatherings, often at historical societies and libraries, over the last ten years, plus a classic or two. Our “discussion” will be the stories that listeners offer up, and as one story leads to another – humorous, serious, thought-provoking, or just plain entertaining – we practice and preserve our stories and tradition. And laugh, a lot. Hosted by the Warner Women’s Club. Contact: Judy Nolen, 456-2611

November 5 Derry Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Derry Public Library
Made of Thunder, Made of Glass
In the early 1800s, native women from the tribes of the northeast created a new art form: delicate, intricately beaded purses, hats, and other whimsical objects. This “souvenir” art, as it has come to be called, played a crucial role in the subsistence of many American Indian families during the nineteenth century. Embedded within the designs are stories told in symbols and motifs that speak of sacred relationships with the natural world. Many such stories are lost now, but the art survives as a legacy, testifying to the inventiveness and aesthetics of a forgotten people. Gerry Biron presents this program. Contact: Sherry Bailey, 432-6140

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