The second of a series of historical programs by the Jaffrey Historical Society, presented in observance of the Jaffrey 250th anniversary celebrations, will be about prominent Jaffrey citizen Amos Fortune.
Peter Lambert, a history teacher, Fortune scholar and published author, will share Amos Fortune’s life story and his impact on early Jaffrey at the Jaffrey Civic Center on Thursday, Feb. 23 , at 7 p.m.
Lambert’s talk will be accompanied by images depicting Fortune, his work as a tanner and how the town looked in the early 19th century. Fortune was brought to this country from Africa and enslaved in Massachusetts until earning his freedom at age 60, and then moving to Jaffrey in 1781 as a free man. He is memorialized as a productive citizen, member of the First Church and a benefactor to the community.
Lambert is a Jaffrey native and serves as a vice president of the Jaffrey Historical Society. The show is free and open to the public, but seating is limited to 75 and there are no reservations.
In case of weather cancelation, the show will be held on Friday, Feb. 24.
Artifacts will be on exhibit and books will be for sale. Recently published 2023 Jaffrey anniversary books will also be available, one per household.
For a full calendar of events celebrating the Jaffrey 250 Jubilee, go to jaffrey250.com.