October 4, 2 pm “Portraits of a Local Regiment–Men (and Boys) of the 153rd Pennsylvania,” Jeffrey Stocker. Men and boys of Northampton County formed the 153rd Volunteer Pennsylvania regiment during the Civil War. Stocker has meticulously researched the lives of these soldiers and will tell what happened to them during and after their term of service. Stocker will share his research at the Sigal Museum, 342 Northampton St., Easton.

Jeffrey Stocker

He will hold a book-signing for We Fought Desperate: A History of the 153rd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment, a 928-page account complete with maps and photos. The title of the book alludes to a late afternoon battle at Chancellorsville on May 2, 1863, when the men were overwhelmed by thousands of Confederates commanded by Stonewall Jackson himself. The book was inspired by Stocker’s own great-grandfather who fought with the 153rd. He utilized letters, diaries, and pension files of the men of the regiment.

Stocker is a practicing attorney in Allentown, PA, a graduate of Muhlenberg College, with a BA in history, and a law degree from the Temple University School of Law. He is a past Brigade Commander of the Civil War Round Table of Eastern PA.

Bachmann

Bachmann Publick House, 2nd St. view & main entrance

October 4, 11 am – 3 pm Tour Day at Bachmann Publick House, 2nd & Northampton Sts. Serving good food to residents and travelers is a centuries’ old tradition in downtown Easton. During the colonial period the Bachmann distinguished itself among the taverns by providing meals cooked to order. Discover where good food & company began, and where history & hospitality continue today – on Garlic Fest Day. Suggested Donation $5. Free Bachmann Poster with a $10 donation.
Bachmann Publick House, 2nd St. view & main entrance

October 11, 10 am – 12 pm Children’s mini workshop on Pa-German barn signs, with Larry Brown, art teacher, free, on the sidewalk.

Larry Brown and youthful artists at sidewalk workshop

Larry Brown and youthful artists at sidewalk workshop

 

 

October 23, 7 pm “An Evening with John Adams,” dinner theatre with tavern meal and lively actors while you dine at the Bachmann Publick House. $60/person ($50 NCHGS members). Reservations by October 17 at 610-253-1222.  In 1777 John Adams wrote to wife Abigail that he had crossed the Delaware River and was “agreeably lodged” in Easton. He would again pass through the village in September when the British army invaded Philadelphia. See the edgy colonial leader interact with innkeeper Theophilis Shannon.

Finegan book

Jeff Finegan’s new book on George Washington

November 8, 1 pm Meet the Author: Jeff Finegan and ‘Tis Well—The Life & Death of George Washington. The life of George Washington has long fascinated local author Jeff Finegan. In this second study, he takes a deeper look into our first President’s family history and his early development and focuses especially on the last two days of the general’s life and funeral. He will hold a book-signing immediately following the illustrated talk. The new book builds on information Finegan provided in his first book, Colonial Washington and Me, a close examination of the relationship between the General and William Lee, his personal slave.

The books are generously illustrated by Preston Hindmarch.

November 8, 11 am – 3 pm, Tour Day at Bachmann Publick House, 2nd & Northampton Sts. Serving good food to residents and travelers is a centuries’ old tradition in downtown Easton. During the colonial period the Bachmann distinguished itself among the taverns by providing meals cooked to order. Discover where good food & company began, and where history & hospitality continue today. Suggested Donation $5. Free Bachmann Poster with a $10 donation.

November 15, 6 pm Lehigh Valley Wine Auction & Tasting at the State Theatre, 453 Northampton Street, Easton. Proceeds benefit the Northampton County Historical & Genealogical Society and the Children’s Home of Easton. Wine Tasting & Pairings – 6:00-7:30 pm; Silent Auction – 6:00-7:30 pm; Live Auction – 8:00-9:00 pm. The event will include a 40-lot live auction and a 30-lot silent auction. Tickets $75, early reservations now accepted at 610.253.1222.

November 22, 2 pm  era  dress 1 era  dress 2 era  dress 3

Opening of premier exhibit, “Eras of Elegance,” an exhibit of 35 carefully restored vintage gowns and accessories covering over 150 years and reflecting historical and economic trends of their times. Talk by Dr. Karin Bohleke, Director, Shippensburg University Fashion Archives and Museum. Dr. Bohleke, as guest curator, provided guidance and expertise to the Sigal Museum curatorial staff (Andria Zaia and Nancy O’Hanlon) and volunteers who prepared costumes and accessories donated to the Northampton County Historical & Genealogical Society over a period of many years.

November 28, 5 – 9 pm Annual Open House at Sigal Museum. Admission just $3 per person (children and adults; free under 3). While Easton lights the Peace Candle, take time to visit Northampton County’s premier museum – the Sigal Museum, 342 Northampton St., Easton.

December 6, 1 – 3 pm, Holiday Pennsylvania-German tree ornament workshop. Watch for details TBA.

December 7, 2 pm.   Colonial Christmas Tea at the Bachmann Publick House.  Attendees will not only enjoy typical tea refreshments but will also witness a colonial era wedding. $20. Seating is limited so reserve early 610.253.1222.

Morris Metz

Morris Metz

ww2 pic

Food being served to American infantrymen at Battle of the Bulge

December 13, 1 pm “The Battle of the Bulge Remembered,” with battle survivors Morris Metz, Harold Kist, and Donald Burdick. In this battle, otherwise known as the Ardennes Offensive, Hitler had hoped to break up the Allied (Canadian, British, and American) forces and thus regain control over the war in Europe.

The battle started in late 1944 in eastern Belgium and northern Luxembourg and ended 41 days later in January 1945. Of the 81,000 American casualties, 19,000 were killed, 47,000 wounded, and 15,000 taken prisoner; 100,000 Germans were killed or wounded as well. Metz served in the company of General George Patton. The three survivors of the battle will be available to provide personal observations. Talk included with admission to the museum.

 

Sigal Museum, 342 Northampton St., Easton, PA
Museum hours: T – Sat. 10 am – 4 pm Sun 12 – 4 pm