with Kenneth C. Turino, Manager of Community Partnerships and Resource Development, Historic New England

$10 (Members 10% discount)

Purchase tickets here

New England’s female abolitionists in the first half of the 19th century played a large role in the development of modern American Christmas traditions. These abolitionists, led by Maria Chapman, hosted anti-slavery society Christmas Fairs—one of the earliest traditions associated with Christmas. It was at these fairs that most Americans in the first half of the 19th century encountered a Christmas tree.

These fairs had a wide-ranging influence on our current customs, including the use of greenery in decorating and gift giving in America. Women promoted abolitionism while creating goods for sale as well as organizing the fairs.

The Museum’s educational programming is supported by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut; Connecticut Humanities; the Randolph and John Dirks Fund; the John and Kelly Hartman Foundation; the Sally Bill Children’s Education Fund; the Betty M. Challgren Education Fund; the Elizabeth Matthews Hubbard Education Fund; the Ingalls Foundation Education Fund; the Sali Godard Riege Educational Fund; and the Lelan F. Sillin, Jr. Education Endowment Fund.

Educational & Travel Program Refund Policy
No refunds for Broadway bus trips or Miss Florence’s Teas after transaction is complete. Refunds for programs over $20 are subject to a $20 cancellation fee. Refunds (less $20 fee) are offered for cancellations made prior to a program’s noted refund date. Programs without a refund date can be cancelled one hour prior to event. No refunds after program takes place. To request a refund or to transfer program fee into a donation, please email david@flogris.org. (Updated February 2022)