Lectures & Workshops

Programs at Felton-Smith Historic Site, Smith Barn, 38 Felton Street, Peabody, MA
Members free | Non-members $5.00
Handicap accessible. Information 978.977.0514

Genealogist Ann Lawthers presents, “Getting Started in Genealogy”

When: Sunday, February 26th, 2023, 2pm

Where: Smith Barn, 38 Felton Street, Peabody, MA

So, you want to find out about your family history. Maybe you want to learn the identity of your ancestors, find out where they lived and what they did for a living? Or maybe your family lore includes stories of a Mayflower immigrant? Perhaps you’ve heard that your ancestor fought in the Revolutionary War or the Civil War? Or you may have medical concerns and wish to find out about your family’s medical legacy. Curiosity, lineage, and medical history are all common reasons to take up the growing hobby of genealogy. Join Ann Lawthers, Genealogist at American Ancestors/NEHGS, to learn how to get started in your family history research.

Ann Lawthers, Genealogist assists visitors to the American Ancestors Research Center, both in the building and online, with their family history research. She is a graduate of Wellesley College and the Harvard School of Public Health. With a long-term interest in history and family research, Ann lectures frequently on behalf of American Ancestors. Areas of particular interest include New England and New York, the Mid-Atlantic states, the southern colonies, Ireland, and migration patterns.

Local historian and author Anthony M. Sammarco presents “Jordan Marsh: New England’s Largest Store”.

When: Sunday, March 12, 2023, 2pm

Where:  Smith Barn, 38 Felton Street, Peabody, MA 01960

Jordan Marsh opened its first store in 1851 on Milk Street in Boston selling assorted dry goods. Following the Civil War, the store moved to Winthrop Square and later to Washington Street between Summer and Avon Streets. The new five-story building, designed by Winslow & Wetherell, unveiled the novel concept of department shopping under one roof. It attracted shoppers by offering personal service with the adage that the customer is always right, easy credit, art exhibitions and musical performances. By the 1970s, it had become a regional New England icon and the largest department store chain in the nation.

Exhibits

Exhibit hours: Monday – Thursday 10 am to 3 pm. Free to the public.

Tours & Walks

No tours and walks currently scheduled.