Thanks and “See you later” North Cambridge

In 2024, our Neighborhood History Center initiative immersed us in the heart of North Cambridge. This vibrant community, brimming with close-knit families, beloved institutions, and burgeoning gems, embraced us warmly. Our two-month pop-up History Center at 2322 Mass Avenue was a triumph, thanks to the enthusiastic welcome from both longtime residents and newcomers. Countless friendly…

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All About Pauline Elizabeth Hopkins

Black and white photo of a woman with dark hair and a black hat hearing a dark dress with a white collar buttoned around the neck

Biography of Pauline Elizabeth Hopkins (1859-1930) Courtesy of Ira Dworkin, Department of English, Texas A&M University Pauline Elizabeth Hopkins, who was born in Portland, Maine, in 1859, is best known for four novels and numerous short stories which she published between 1900 and 1903. Her best-known work, the novel Contending Forces: A Romance Illustrative of Negro…

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October 17: Beyond Her Time: The Visionary Works of Pauline Hopkins

Banner for Pauline Hopkins Event

About the event Thursday, October 17Cambridge Public Library Main Branch, 449 Broadway A discussion between Dr. Susan Tomlinson, Associate Professor of English at UMass Boston and Dr. Max L. Chapnick, adjunct professor at Northeastern University; moderated by Virginia Pye, Cambridge-based author. This event was in partnership with the Cambridge Public Library and the Cambridge Black…

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Oct 23: Party at Pemberton: A Fundraiser for History Cambridge

Thank you to all who came out for our Party at Pemberton. We had a wonderful time learning about the history of the store and creating community. The hospitality of Greg Saidnawey and his team are unmatched! Guests left with delicious treats from Spindler Confections and a greater appreciation for this special neighborhood space. Your…

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Oct 30: Virtual book group discussion of Contending Forces

Details Wed, Oct 30 at 7pmFreeOn Zoom A pioneering figure of her time, Pauline Hopkins was a novelist, journalist, playwright, and activist who fearlessly tackled issues of race, gender, and social justice.  Join us for a virtual discussion of her 1900 novel Contending Forces (available through the Cambridge Public Library). To learn more about Hopkins,…

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Aug 6 & 10: 21st Century Cambridge Kids

Graphic of four teens looking at a historic map of Cambridge

We regret we have to cancel this tour! Join CRLS alums Miranda Santiago and Isabel Macedo for a captivating guided tour through North Cambridge. Discover the neighborhood’s rich history as they weave together historical accounts with personal stories from current and former residents. Learn how the neighborhood has transformed while preserving its unique identity. Longtime…

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July 25: Play with Clay at Danehy Park

Thursday, July 251-3 pmDanehy Park (near Sherman Street)Free; no registration requiredAges 3+ North Cambridge was once home to a thriving brickmaking industry. Join us for a family-friendly drop-in event at Danehy Park to learn more about the history and get your hands dirty with clay. Want to learn more about Cambridge’s brick history? Check out…

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June 11: Play with Clay on Cambridge Common

Tuesday, June 115-7 pmCambridge CommonFree; no registration requiredAges 3+ Cambridge was once home to a thriving brickmaking industry. Join us for a family-friendly drop-in event on Cambridge Common to learn more about the history and get your hands dirty with clay. Want to learn more about Cambridge’s brick history? Check out these resources on our…

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