Freedom’s Cause: Wheatley, Washington, and Poetry of a Revolutionary Headquarters

In October 1775, newly emancipated poet Phillis Wheatley sent a poem to General George Washington at his Cambridge Headquarters. His reply, dated February 28, 1776, offers a rare glimpse into how poetry influenced the politics and public sentiment of the Revolutionary era.

As we approach the 250th anniversary of this exchange, join us for a talk exploring Wheatley’s work in the context of the early American Revolution, the implications of Washington’s response, and the role of poetry in shaping both historical memory and national identity.

Presented by Emily Levine, Program Manager for Interpretation and Education at Longfellow House-Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site. Emily has previously worked at Lowell National Historical Park and as the Interpretive Supervisor at Alcatraz Island and Muir Woods National Monument. She holds a master’s degree in museum education from Tufts University and is passionate about using historic sites to foster lifelong learning, community engagement, and civic dialogue.

Thursday, February 26

6:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Wakelin Room

REGISTER

Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free LibrarieS