Presenter Meg Wastie will examine the popular story of American patriot Paul Revere by comparing Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s “Paul Revere’s Ride” with the historical record of Revere’s well-known mission. Longfellow’s poem helped shape generations of Americans’ understanding of the revolutionary figure, although the poem was written decades after the events it portrays.
Wastie grew up in Westfield and most recently served as an education consultant for the Westfield Historical Society. She taught English, speech and drama at Columbia High School in Maplewood for 32 years and later served as curator of education at the Museum of Early Trades & Crafts in Madison. She continues to present programs to community groups in New Jersey and Florida.
Reservations are required by Thursday, October 1. The fee is $40 for Historical Society members and $45 for nonmembers, including a three-course meal, coffee or tea and gratuity. To reserve, email westfieldhistoricalsociety@gmail.com or call 908-654-1794. Payment may be made by check, Venmo or online through the Society’s registration page. Attendees should also review Echo Lake Country Club’s guest policies before the event.