Today is Friday, February 20, 2026 
INTRODUCING: FREEDOM: THE VICTORIES, PROMISES, AND POTENTIALS OF 1776
This will be a six-part lecture series to commence January 14 and run every three weeks ending April 29. The lecture series will be in keeping with the region’s observance of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and in collaboration with Lyman Allyn Art Museum.
The theme will be Freedom: The Victories, Promises and Potentials of 1776 and the speakers will explore “freedom in America” and what it has meant across history for different segments of society, all from a local perspective. We will look at the topic of freedom as it relates to Revolution, through the lens of African American history, Indigenous history, women’s history, immigration and natural resources. These individual subjects, as well as the overriding theme of the Lecture Series, are as relevant today as it was 250 years ago, perhaps even more so.
Individual tickets include admission to the lecture and a one-hour reception in the Hendel Library with light bites and beverages. Guests will also have access to museum galleries prior to the start of each lecture. Take the opportunity to check out new exhibitions and mingle with like-minded folks!
January 14: The Revolution Along the Thames River | Matthew Reardon
February 4: Up & Down the River: Mohegan History Film for America 250 | Melissa Tantaquidgeon Zobel
February 25: The African American Perspective of Celebrating the 250th | Marvin Espy
March 18: The Women’s Suffrage Movement | Bev York
April 8: A Community Conversation on Immigration | Five-Person Panel
April 29: This Fine Piece of Water: An Environmental History of Long Island Sound | Tom Anderson
- Wednesdays, every three weeks
- Lyman Allyn Art Museum
- 6PM Reception | 7PM Lecture
