Step back into early 19th-century New England with local author and historian Dr. Mary Kronenwetter as she introduces her historical novel, Pauper Auction.
The novel explores a little-known and fascinating chapter of early American history: the practice of “pauper auctions.” Before modern social services existed, towns were responsible for providing for residents who could not support themselves. In some New England communities, the care of these individuals was “auctioned” to local households willing to take them in for the lowest cost to the town. This system and the lives of those affected by it provide the historical backdrop for Pauper Auction.
Set in rural New Hampshire following the Revolutionary War, the novel immerses readers in everyday life of the period. Drawing on extensive research, Mary incorporates authentic details of early 19th-century foodways and traditional crafts, including blacksmithing, stone wall building, needlework, and hard cider-making.
During this special presentation, Mary will share excerpts from Pauper Auction, offer insight into the history and research behind the novel, and discuss the important role historical fiction can play in bringing the past to life and helping us better understand the world we live in today.
Dr. Mary Kronenwetter is a resident of the Skyview neighborhood of Terra Vista and holds a doctorate in education. She has taught in college humanities programs in the United States, China, and Japan and has served as a museum educator at Historic Deerfield, The John Hay Estate at The Fells, and the Enfield Shaker Museum. Her experiences interpreting history at these institutions helped inspire and inform Pauper Auction.
Mary currently serves as a New Hampshire Humanities Scholar and is an instructor with the OSHER Lifelong Learning Institute at Dartmouth College and the Adventures in Learning program at Colby-Sawyer College.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad on a Croissant Roll with Sweet Potato Salad, Coffee, Tea, and Pumpkin Pie
11:30 AM Doors│ 12 PM Lunch│1-2 PM Presentation
Reserved seating is arranged at tables of eight. Seating within your assigned table is first come, first served, and guests may sit anywhere at their reserved table. Once a table has been selected, seating locations may not be changed. All sales are final. If you have any dietary restrictions or special meal requests, please notify our staff at the time of registration, as day-of requests may not be accommodated. Registration closes Thursday, December 3 at 3:00 PM
