The Past Comes Alive for another Season of Entertaining Performances

 

 

The past will come back to life during a series of fascinating shows, as another season of living history performances returns to the Historical Society of Cecil County.  Three times during the winter, costumed interpreters will reverse the clock as they take audiences back in time to hear an important figure from the nation’s past.  During these lively and entertaining programs this season you will encounter William Penn, a Mathew Brady era photographer, and Rosalie of  Riversdale.

 

The series opens on January 5 at 7:00 p.m. when Rosalie Calvert of Riversdale Plantation relives the drama of life during the War of 1812, as she describes the Battle of Bladensburg, the burning of Washington, and the creation of the Star-Spangled Banner.  The presentation also explores the fascinating day-to-day details of running a plantation in Maryland. 

 

This program is put on by award-winning actress Mary Ann Jung, a Shakespearean Language Instructor at the Maryland Renaissance Festival.  Her unique and lively program packed the house last year when she did an interpretation based on Clara Barton.  She has also been featured at the National Theatre of Washington and many other venues.  This free program, underwritten by the Maryland Humanities Council, is open to the public.

 

The second program on Saturday, February 17 at 7:00 p.m. features William Penn.  Penn was a leading figure of the English Quakers and founder of the American colony, Pennsylvania.  He was often involved in the controversies of the day.  The Society is pleased to have Christian Johnson return for this performance.  In real life, the engaging actor has appeared at places such as the Library of Congress. 

 

The final performance for the season takes place on Saturday, March 17 at 7:00 p.m. when a Mathew Brady Era photographer demonstrates his skills.  The audience will hear of the work of these pioneering camera-men, who rose to prominence during the Civil War and the equipment used by this generation of artists will be demonstrated.

 

The last two free programs are underwritten by a generous grant from the Cecil County Special Events Foundation.  The Society is located at 135 E. Main Street, Elkton.  Visit the web site (www.cchistory.org) for additional information, and watch for additional details as program dates approach.