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Happy National Poetry Month!

Poetry's prominence in the 19th century meant that Longfellow's fame was on the order of today's biggest music and movie stars. His influence is still felt throughout popular culture, as depicted on this box of tea from 1995. In Longfellow's day poetry was more widely read, used more often as a teaching tool, and accessible to a broader swath of the public. Over time, and perhaps unfairly, poetry became more narrowly defined as an elite pursuit, the realm of academics, intellectuals, and artistes.

In 1996, the American Academy of Poets christened April "National Poetry Month" to celebrate poetry's intrinsic value and vitality for all. Programs like the national recitation contest Poetry Out Loud have helped reinstate the practice of learning and sharing poems with audiences. Poetry slams made poetry cool again. Recent U.S. Poet Laureates like Billy Collins, whose plain-spoken language and contemporary themes have resonated with a wide range of readers (and sold a ton of books), have reminded people that poetry is truly for everyone.

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Wednesday, April 17, 12:00pm
Intro to MHS: Museum Collections: Recent Acquisitions and PastPerfect Online Facilitator: Holly Hurd-Forsyth, MHS Registrar
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Making Maine's History Count
Your participation and support of Maine Historical Society makes a meaningful difference in the kinds of exhibits and educational programming we can offer our members, friends, and communities across the state. 

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Here's how you can help:
Come to our gala, The Mad Hatter Affair, on May 4 
Become a Member
Give to the Annual Fund
Leave a Legacy through Planned Giving
Join the Friends of the Collections
Make a Tribute Gift

For more ways to give, and to become a corporate sponsor, call us at 207-774-1822 ext. 206.