The American Revolution wasn't as clear-cut as patriots versus redcoats. It divided neighbors, friends and even families — and that's the story historian Dr. Abby Chandler wants North Andover residents to hear.
Chandler, an associate professor of American history at UMass Lowell and a member of the Massachusetts 250th Anniversary Commission, will present "March to Revolution: Lesser Known Stories from 1775–1776" on Tuesday, July 14, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the North Andover Historical Society's Stevens Center, 800 Massachusetts Ave.
Rather than retelling familiar battles, Chandler explores the Loyalists, political divisions and personal conflicts that shaped the Revolution.
"In many ways, it was a civil war," Chandler told UMass Lowell. "These were people from the same communities... drawing very different conclusions."
Admission is $15, or $5 for North Andover Historical Society members. Registration is required through the society's website, and free admission is available for eligible Card to Culture participants.
If history isn't your thing, live music is on deck later this month.
The Trustees of Reservations' Summer Concert Series continues July 23 at Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens, 153 Chickering Road, with funk and soul band The Far Out. The series runs through Aug. 27, with performances by Dwayne Haggins, Andrew DiMarzo and Gravity Rising.
Upcoming events
- Tuesday, July 14: "March to Revolution" with Dr. Abby Chandler, 6:30-8 p.m., Stevens Center, 800 Massachusetts Ave.
- Thursday, July 23: The Far Out, 6-8 p.m., Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens.
- Thursday, Aug. 6: Dwayne Haggins, 6-8 p.m., Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens.
