The Revolution Along the Thames River

Description

Tickets: https://www.thamesriverheritagepark.org/lecture-series/

Historian and author, Matthew Reardon, will discuss "A Heroic but Doomed Defense: The Battle of New London, September 6, 1781" based on his book "The Traitor's Homecoming: Benedict Arnold's Raid on New London, Connecticut, September 4-13, 1781." The discussion will cover certain aspects of the Connecticut patriot verses Connecticut loyalist. 

Presenter Bio Matthew Reardon is a native of northeastern Connecticut. He earned his BA in history and an MA in education from Sacred Heart University. His research interests mainly focus on Connecticut during the American Revolution and the Civil War. He has published several articles for the Journal of the American Revolution and served as executive director of the New England Civil War Museum & Research Center for over fifteen years. He currently works as a middle school teacher in Vernon, Connecticut, and serves as a command historian for the Connecticut Military Department. 

Six-Part Lecture Series: "Freedom: The Victories, Promises, and Potentials of 1776" 

Dates: January 14-April 29, 2026 | every three weeks 

Where: Lyman Allyn Art Museum 

Schedule: Reception, 6-7pm | Lecture, 7-8pm 

The speakers will explore the meaning of freedom in America, examining its historical implications for various segments of society, all from a local perspective. It will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. 

Ticket purchase includes beverages and light bites during the hour reception prior to the lecture. Guests can also access museum galleries and visit exhibitions while they mingle!