Up and Down the River: A Mohegan History Film for America 250

Description

The plot of Up and Down the River follows the challenges faced by the Mohegan people, especially tribal women, living along the Massapequotuck (now called Thames) as they navigate the Revolutionary era and beyond. This story also honors Samuel Ashbow Jr., the first Native American soldier to die fighting for our new nation in June 1775 at Bunker Hill. 

Presenter Bio: Melissa Tantaquidgeon Zobel is an enrolled citizen of the Mohegan Tribe. She is the grandniece and mentee of the late Mohegan Medicine Woman Gladys Tantaquidgeon. Melissa has served the Mohegan people since she was a teenager, starting as Tour Guide and Curator at Tantaquidgeon Museum, Federal Recognition Coordinator, Executive Director of the Department of Cultural and Community Programs Department, Medicine Woman, Tribal Historian, Creative Media Liaison, Vice Chair of the Tribal Council, and currently, Vice Chair of the Council of Elders. She is an award-winning novelist, screenwriter and playwright, with an MFA from Fairfield University, an MA in History from UCONN and a BSFS from Georgetown University. This film was co-written and directed by her daughter Madeline Sayet, an actor, playwright and professor at Arizona State University. 

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!