Historian Alan Earls presentation 3/11

The Most Famous Irishman Who Never Was

Local historian Alan Earls will deliver a unique two part program on Saturday March 11th at the Franklin Historical Museum.  Earls will first discuss the arrival of the Irish in Franklin in the 19th Century – why they came, how they made Franklin home and the challenges they faced. He will then introduce Mr. Dooley – an “Irishman” who became the public face of the Irish in America. It was Dooley and his popularity as a political commentator that had much to do with the growing acceptance and appreciation of the Irish across the United States.

Wedding Gowns

DSCN5838This year we have 11 beautiful dresses on display which span from 1890 to 1960.  New to this year’s display is Palma DeBaggis Johnson’s Wedding Dress.  Palma was a much loved teacher who was known best for working with her Kennedy School class on a project that ended in the Ladybug being named Massachusetts stage bug. We have 4 sets of dresses that are Mother and Daughter and one dress worn by both Mother and Daughter.  The exhibit committee has been working hard ironing gowns, dressing mannequins and telling the stories of the dresses.  We hope to see you soon.

Horace Mann Day ~ Sunday May 3rd

HM2The museum will celebrate Franklin’s most famous son, Horace Mann with a special presentation by speaker and author Peter Golden.  Peter will present a talk on HORACE MANN AND HIS WORLD.  The museum opens at 1:00pm and the presentation will start at 1:30.  A welcome by Historic Commission Chairperson Debbie Pellegri will start the afternoon, with welcome and comments by Commission Member Mary Olsson, State Rep Jeff Roy and finally Peter Golden’s presentation.  An exhibit on the timeline and details of Mann’s life will be on permanent display at the museum.  Cake and coffee will be served.  Historians, teachers, students, residents and all who are interested in the influence of Horace Mann on our world today are welcome to attend this informative presentation.