We are delighted to announce that we have received a program grant from for our 2018 Hawthorne-related programming.
The House of the Seven Gables Settlement Association is delighted to announce that we have received a programming grant from Mass Humanities to support commemorate its architectural legacy, made possible by the success of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The House of the Seven Gables. While a variety of celebratory programming is planned for the 350th, the slate of programming dedicated to Hawthorne will help visitors better understand this well-known yet enigmatic icon. Using the study of history, literature, and language, H7GSA seeks to inform visitors of all ages about the themes that Hawthorne explored during his prolific career and how they translate to today.
Hawthorne’s muse for his works was driven by an interest in history and inspiration from his travels. Recent Hawthorne scholarship has revealed a complicated man with deep loyalty to his family, yet a yearning to live a life outside of New England’s grip. Programming around the author is meant to introduce new audiences and reacquaint old ones with the complex history of Nathaniel Hawthorne.
Programs will reach a wide and diverse audience. Three events are planned with the Witch City Writers including a Poetry Workshop for Kids, a Nathaniel Hawthorne 101 session, & a speed-writing challenge based on the famous first line of the novel. Visitors will have a chance to “meet the past” and take a walk around Salem with Nathaniel Hawthorne on April 14. In May, educators from around the state will be welcomed for a professional workshop in partnership with the Massachusetts Historical Society. Educators at all levels will learn about Hawthorne and other literary inspirations so that they can better share legendary stories in their own environments.
Finally, we’ll being outreach for the Meet Nathaniel Hawthorne education program, which will debut at the professional educator workshop and then be offered to local schools and as public programs to partner organizations in Concord and Salem in May.
Needless to say, 2018 is a huge year for The House of the Seven Gables and we are grateful for the support from Mass Humanities to make Hawthorne more accessible.