American Stories: Rebels and Revolutionaries of the Berkshires

Join us for "American Stories: Rebels and Revolutionaries of the Berkshires," a summer history course held every Wednesday in July at 11 am or 5:30 pm. In celebration of America's 250th anniversary, this program explores the crucial role the Berkshires played in the founding of the nation, examining the profound biographies of local residents who shaped American history and culture from the late 18th century onward.

Each session begins at the Norman Rockwell Museum, where participants will discuss relevant artworks from the American Stories: Revolution to Rockwell exhibit. This summer's highlighted topic is “Harlem On My Mind”: Black Freedom Struggles in the Berkshires, featuring figures such as Agrippa Hull, Elizabeth Freeman, Samuel Harrison, and W.E.B. Du Bois.

The course is led by Justin F. Jackson, a lecturer and visiting scholar from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, who specializes in US history and has written extensively on the subject. Admission costs $40 for members and $45 for non-members (discounts available for two attendees), with free access for Gallery Guild or Artist Forum level members. Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the rich historical narrative of the Berkshires!