HISTORIAN PETER WALLNER TO GIVE TALK ON NEW BOOK ABOUT THE NH 1907 HERESY TRIAL INVOLVING MARY BAKER EDDY AND CHRISTIAN SCIENCE

  

CONCORD, NH--On Wednesday, November 5, at 4 p.m., historian and author Peter Wallner will present a talk and book-signing for his new book, Faith on Trial: Mary Baker Eddy, Christian Science and the First Amendment. Wallner's latest work examines the sensational 1907 Merrimack County Superior Court case in which Mary Baker Eddy was forced to defend herself and the religion she founded, Christian Science.

  

The event will be held at the New Hampshire Historical Society, 30 Park Street, Concord, on November 5 at 4 p.m. Books will be available for purchase for $29.95, and Society members will receive a 15% discount. Admission is free.

  

In Eddy v. Frye, Eddy, who resided at Pleasant View in Concord, challenged her son and adopted son, who were attempting to take possession of her and her wealth. This largely forgotten case became a heresy trial as Eddy's religious views and Christian Science became the basis of the plaintiff's charge that Eddy was insane and incapable of caring for herself. 

  

Author Howard Mansfield writes: "[Mary Baker Eddy] at age 85 fought a titanic battle to defend her beliefs and her considerable wealth. Peter Wallner's diligent research delivers us into the thick of that courthouse drama, a cause célèbre of the day, and one with enough wattage that it would light up the Twittersphere today."

  

Peter Wallner is also the author of the two-volume biography, Franklin Pierce: New Hampshire's Favorite Son and Franklin Pierce: Martyr for the Union. All Wallner's books are available for purchase through the Society's online store at nhhistory.org.

  

About the New Hampshire Historical Society

Founded in 1823, the New Hampshire Historical Society is the independent nonprofit that saves, preserves, and shares New Hampshire history. The Society serves thousands of children and adults each year through its museum and library collections, educational programs, publications, and outreach programs. The Society is not a state-funded agency. All its programs and services are made possible by membership dues and contributions. For more information about the Society and the benefits of membership, visit  nhhistory.org or call 603-228-6688.

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