‘History Bites’ Lunchtime Lecture Series
‘History Bites’ is back!
‘History Bites’ is a series of 30- to 50-minute lectures to inform and entertain, covering various aspects of the history of Amherst, its surrounding environs, and the lives of those who once lived here. The Amherst Historical Society started this popular series in 2014 and we are fortunate to have archived video of lectures dating back to 2015.
September 2023
Wachusett Reservoir
Wachusett Reservoir
Work on the Wachusett Reservoir was completed in 1905 and the reservoir first filled in May 1908 At the time, it was the largest man-made reservoir in the world, supplying drinking water to Boston via the Sudbury River.
Investigating Tan Brook
Investigating Tan Brook
The Tan Brook has been diverted, channeled and built over, but it still runs underneath Amherst. Join Dr Christine Hatch as she rediscovers this historic stream.
October 2023
Lydia Maria Child
Lydia Maria Child
Lydia Maria Child (1802 - 1880) was a true heroine of the abolitionist movement; she gave up a promising career and her standing in society to battle slavery.
New England Libraries - Common PLACE
New England Libraries - Common PLACE
Local author Thomas Johnson's first book, Common PLACE, is a tour de force that explores the origins of the public library system in America. While many Americans may assume that public libraries exist(ed) worldwide, this illuminating book details the gradual evolution of a uniquely American institution that originated in New England.