History Speaks Lecture Series

History Speaks Lecture Series 2008-09

Join us at Naper Settlement for this special lecture series on prominent figures and topics with primary focus on the 19th century.
All programs are held in the Century Memorial Chapel.

$5/Naperville Heritage Society Sustaining Member and students and youth
$6/non-member

At the door: $7 all adults, $6 students and youth

Reservations for all presentations are recommended. Call 630.420.6010 to reserve your seat.
Download a PDF version of the History Speaks Brochure here >

Lincoln-Douglas Debates

October 12, 2008 from 7-8 p.m.
On the 150th anniversary of the Lincoln-Douglas Debates, Terry Lynch as Stephen A. Douglas and Michael Krebs as Abraham Lincoln will recreate the fifth of seven formal political debates that were held between two archrivals, running for an Illinois seat in the United States Senate. These veteran actors will portray the colorful personages of the past and the impact they had on history.

First Ladies

November 9, 2008 from 7-8 p.m.
Although we know about the presidents and their families from history books, movies and television, most of what we read or see is about their public personas. Join Jenny Riddle as she presents a one-woman show dramatizing the personal lives of three remarkable First Ladies: Mary Todd Lincoln, Eleanor Roosevelt and Jackie Kennedy. Watch for another First Lady who may make a surprise visit.

George Washington

January 11, 2009 from 7-8 p.m.
George Washington was the first president of our country, but did you know this surveyor and gentleman farmer happily became a father not only to his wife's children and grandchildren, but also to many nieces and nephews as well? His devotion to his family was as important as his commitment to his soldiers and, later, a fledgling nation. In his portrayal of our first president, actor Terry Lynch will show what brought Washington from a surveyor of land to the leader of our country.

Lincolns

Evening with the Lincolns

February 9, 2009 from 7-8 p.m.
This special presentation, in honor of Abraham Lincoln's 200th birthday, features Max and Donna Daniels portraying President Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln. The Lincolns will reflect on past events in their lives, as they prepare to leave for that fateful evening at Ford's Theatre.

The Underground Railroad

March 8, 2009 from 1-3 p.m.
This original program on the Underground Railroad, created by Naper Settlement's Education Department, is presented as interactive theater with the audience participating in the roles of 1856 scholars. Walking from building to building, participants meet townspeople, among them an abolitionist, a Southern sympathizer and a runaway slave, who offer many different perspectives about the issues of the day. Dress for the outdoors; some standing required.

Reservations are required for this program, limited to 75 participants ages 10 to adult. Special pricing for this two-hour program: $12/adult, $10/Naperville Heritage Society Sustaining members and students

The Art of Norman Rockwell

Apri1 19, 2009 from 7-8 p.m.
Regarded as America's most popular painter during his lifetime, Norman Rockwell has endured in the warm memories of people who enjoyed the covers he painted for The Saturday Evening Post for nearly 60 years. This program, presented by art historian Professor Jeff Mishur of Art Excursions, takes a look at the development of Rockwell's career.
Photo Licensed by Norman Rockwell Licensing, Niles, IL

Coco Chanel

May 3, 2009 from 7-8 p.m.
Born Gabrielle Chanel in 1883, she was the most influential designer of the 20th century, as copied and admired today as she was in her lifetime. Lively and frank, the unforgettable "Coco," portrayed by actress Annette Baldwin, will share her fashion theories, reveal her business secrets and candidly discuss the men in her life and their influences on her work.

All events and prices are subject to change without notice.