LIBRARY
THE OLD MAN: HIS LIFE AND LEGACY
WEDNESDAY, JULY 24, 7:00—8:15 PM
Lower Level- Johnson Meeting Room, Amherst Town Library,
14 Main Street, Amherst, NH 03031
COMING UP When the Old Man of the Mountain fell from his perch high above Franconia Notch, on May 3, 2003, it made international news. Many in New Hampshire and beyond responded as though mourning a beloved public figure. This program presents the "story" of the Old Man and examines the ways that public perceptions of the Profile played a role in shaping and establishing New Hampshire's identity, both symbolically and physically. We will discuss the stories of the many people who played a part in "saving" the Old
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Man, from the risk-taking mountaineers and engineers who kept the ledges in place for so many years, to the school children who gave their pennies to help protect the forest around him. Participants will be encouraged to tell stories of their own encounters with this iconic symbol as we discuss why these granite ledges – the result of a "miraculous accident" according to a state geologist – have played such an outsized role in the hearts of so many.
Presenter Inez McDermott has been teaching art history and curating art and history exhibitions in New Hampshire since 1986. In her classes and research she explores the ways that art can play a role in social engagement, participatory democracy, and activism. Her specific research interests focus on historical and contemporary New Hampshire art and artists, with a particular focus on 19th-century photography.
This program is made possible by New Hampshire Humanities. Learn more at www.nhhumanities.org.
MAKING SENSE OF KIM JONG UN'S "HERMIT KINGDOM"
TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 7:00—8:15 PM (Zoom)
COMING UP This presentation examines the broader history of North Korea since 1948 and highlights the historical conditions that led to the emergence of the Kim family dynasty. Analyzing the history of US-North Korean relations in particular, it also assesses the decision-making of Kim Jong Un's regime and helps participants better understand continued tensions on the Korean peninsula in the present. This discussion will involve audience participation and draw on the presenter's doctoral work as well as his 2015 research trip to North Korea.
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Presenter Brandon K. Gauthier completed his doctorate in Modern History at Fordham University in New York City. He is an Adjunct Professor of History for Fordham University and the Director of Global Education at The Derryfield School. He speaks passionately, and loudly, about his enduring interest in the lives of people--both ordinary and extraordinary--who find themselves caught up in the waves of history. He lives with his wife and two daughters in New Hampshire.
Virtual Program. Registration Required. This program WILL be recorded. Register to receive a link to the recording.