American Inspiration

Today’s U. S. highway system began with an unforgettable, exploratory, cross-country ride, led by a 28-year-old Army lieutenant colonel, Dwight Eisenhower. As we launch into summer travel, don’t miss the story of Ike’s coast-to-coast journey—two historians’ in-depth look at Ike’s dream of connecting our country with roads, and at Americans’ evolving experience and passion for driving.  

Moderated by Ted Widmer

Special for Father’s Day! The whole family will enjoy this evening’s exploration of fatherhood, from the invention of this fundamental institution in the Bronze Age through its transformation to the present day. Augustine Sedgewick’s bold and original work of history provides a collective portrait of emblematic fathers who have helped to define how the world should be ruled and what it means to be a man.

Moderated by Michele Filgate

Join us for an illustrated tour of the Gilded Age, seen through the experiences and artistry of two of its celebrated artists: architect Stanford White and the sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Author Henry Wiencek and moderator Curt DiCamillo will take us behind the scenes to show how these two cultural trendsetters transcended scandal to enrich their times.

Hybrid Event - Join online or in-person!

Moderated by Curt DiCamillo

Journey back to the 17^th Century with two celebrated scholars in this discussion of courtship, marriage, love, and sex, drawn from the world’s first personal advice column and Mary Beth Norton’s latest book, I Humbly Beg Your Speedy Answer.  

Actor-producer-director Griffin Dunne grew up among larger-than-life characters in Hollywood and Manhattan. Don’t miss hearing the story of his family – a New York Times bestseller named a Best Book of the Year by  NPR, Time, People, and Town & Country magazines.