Prior 2004/2005 Season Events

Lecture Series

All lectures are held at the Smith Museum, adjacent to the Jason Russell House. Admission is free and seating is unreserved. The lectures take place at 8:00 p.m. with doors open at 7:30. Wheelchair access at Jason Terrace entrance. Directions.

Mastodons in Arlington

Timothy Kardatzke

Tuesday, October 26, 2004, 8 p.m.

What was Arlington like during the end of the last ice age? The tusk of a mastodon discovered in Spy Pond in the late 1950s has given us at least one clue. We will explore the flora and fauna that may have populated this part of New England. More information.

Up from Goat Acre

Dennis Ahern

Tuesday, November 30, 2004, 8 p.m.

The Aherns came to Arlington from County Cork, Ireland, in 1857. By 1900 you would not say a word against them for fear you could be talking to one of their cousins. Dennis Ahem, a past vice president of the Society, will tell of the Irish community around North Union Street known as Goat Acre. Gleaned from four decades of the Arlington Advocate, his talk will document the social life of what was once the most Irish town in Massachusetts. More information.

Boston's Ice King: Frederic Tudor

Dr. Alan Seaburg, Author and Curator of Manuscripts,
Emeritus, Divinity School of Harvard University

Tuesday, January 25. 2005, 8 p.m.

This entertaining slide lecture portrays the ideas, persistence and determination of Frederic Tudor (1783-1864), one of Boston's and New England's most colorful and fascinating characters. Everyone thought his idea of harvesting ice from New England's ponds and shipping it to warmer climates was crazy, for certainly the ice would melt along the way. But Tudor overcame all obstacles and proved to be one of our country's earliest and most pragmatic business entrepreneurs. More information.

A Portrait So True: Civil War Photography

David L. Smith, Civil War Round Table of Greater Boston

Tuesday, February 22, 2005, 8 p.m.

A discussion of how photography began, emphasizing 19th century photographers Matthew Brady, Alexander Gardner and Timothy H. O'Sullivan. Included will be an explanation of (he nature of a Civil War Studio and the challenge of taking photographs on the battlefields. This discussion will be illustrated by David's own personal CDVs, daguerreotypes and photographs of that era. More information.

Susan B. Anthony: The Invincible!

Sally S. Matson, Actress and Educator

Tuesday, March 29, 2005, 8 p.m.

In celebration of Women's History Month, Susan B. Anthony is coming to town! Come hear her bold opinions! Take an historical journey into the life and struggles of this foremost late 19th century leader who was a lifelong advocate of women's rights in education, the workplace, marriage and the voting booth. This lively one-woman play is based upon extensive research into Susan B. Anthony's most fiery speeches, her most humorous letters and her most revealing diary entries. More information.

Objects, Ideas and Insights

The Fuller Museum of Art, Brockton, Massachusetts

Tuesday, April 26, 2005, 8 p.m.

Anyone who enjoys and appreciates fine New England arts and crafts will not want to miss this enlightening program. A docent from the education department of New England's only craft museum will reveal to us how artisans from days gone by have influenced the creation, decoration, function and style for many objects of today. Many historical period pieces will be displayed and discussed to compare ideas and insights from the past and the present.

Arlington in the "Gas Light Era"

Richard A. Duffy, Author and Historian

Tuesday, May 31, 2005, 8 p.m.

For close to 80 years, the Arlington Gas Light Co. locally manufactured the gas that was piped into the town's homes and businesses. Already a mature company when Arlington's residential boom began in the early 20th century, the utility embarked on the colorful promotion of an array of forgotten gas lighting and appliances that will delight nostalgia buffs. Corporate history is but the backdrop for this entertaining illustrated lecture of everyday life in Arlington. Note: This lecture will be held at the Pleasant St. Congregational Church, 75 Pleasant St., Arlington.

Other Events

Images of Arlington

Exhibit: March 28-May 12, 2005

At the Arlington Center for the Arts. 41 Foster Street | Arlington, MA

Eligibility & Concept Calling all artists young and old! From Arlington and beyond! This show will celebrate all things Arlington – the people, places, and things that make this community so special. For more information go to www.acarts.org.

30th Anniversary of First Parish Fire

On Friday, March 7, 1975, the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church in Arlington center burned to the ground. Many of the people in town watched all day long from the arrival of the first fire truck about 9:50 am until well into the evening hours.

On March 6, 2005, the church will open a month-long exhibit commemorating the fire. There will be photos, mounted pages from the Advocate and bits and pieces of the building. The exhibit will be open to the public during the month of March, weekdays, Monday-Thursday, 9am to 4pm, Friday 9am - 2pm. Entrance is through the office door nearest the town Library.

Prince Hall Cemetery Memorial

Memorial Day, Monday, May 31, 12:00 noon

Arlington Historical Society Yard Sale

Saturday, June 11, 2005. 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.*

At the Jason Russell House, 7 Jason Street, Arlington

Decorative home accessories, Bric-a-brac, Pictures and picture frames, Collectibles, Clocks, Lamps, Vases, Dishes, cups, glasses, Rugs, Books, Toys, Fashion accessories, Costume jewelry, and more... Volunteers and donations are still needed. *Raindate June 18. More information.