Upcoming Heritage Programs at the Port Jefferson Library

The Local Heritage Project is gearing up for a culturally enriched and beautiful spring season. Join us as we explore three different cultures: Irish, Chinese and American. Learn the history of one of Long Island Railroad cars, explore the heritage of nine women, discover how to preserve our memories and discuss the latest book in our historical book discussion.

Irish in New York

Tuesday, March 6 at 7 p.m.

In celebration of St. Patrick's Day, join us for a lively history of the Irish in New York. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, many Irish citizens emigrated to the U.S., often to escape religious persecution and economic hardship. Most left family, friends and loved ones behind, and upon arrival in America encountered widespread prejudice. Local professor, Tara Rider, will present a fascinating multimedia look at the history and culture of the Irish of New York from their immigrant beginnings to the present day.

Rail Road Museum of Long Island

Thursday, March 8 at 7 p.m.

Join Mr. Don Fisher as he gives a historic overview of the steam locomotive Engine 39 restoration project. The topic will include the Long Island Railroad’s change from steam engines to diesel locomotives, Engine 39’s exhibition at the Museums at Stony Brook, its move to Riverhead and the years of work that have gone into its long awaited restoration.

The Unity of Heaven and Human: The Core of Chinese Culture

Sunday, March 18 at 2 p.m.

Dr. Qiong (Joan) Zeng, of State University of New York at Stony Brook, is sponsoring a series of visual lectures which will focus on Chinese culture, heritage, history, myths and legends including Shen Yun, a classical Chinese dance and orchestral organization. The topic for this lecture is “The Unity of Heaven and Human: the Core of Chinese Culture”. The program presenter will be Mr. Long Hu.

Historical Happenings Book Discussion Group

Tuesday, March 20 at 10 a.m.

Title for this discussion in March is “Thunderstruck” by Erik Larson. If you enjoy learning about the past then this new book club is for you! The discussion facilitator is Caren Zatyk. Books for the March meeting can be picked up at the Reference Desk.

America’s Nine First Ladies from New York

Tuesday, March 27 at 7 p.m.

In Honor of Women’s History Month, join us for this entertaining and informative talk focusing on the nine intriguing First Ladies born in New York State. They include Eleanor Roosevelt, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Nancy Reagan, and Barbara Bush. This program is being presented by educator and historian, Elizabeth Kahn Kaplan. This Speakers in the Humanities event, which is free and open to the public, is made possible through the support of the New York Council for the Humanities, a state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Suburban America: A Film

Thursday, March 29 at 7 p.m.

Three-time Emmy Award-winning filmmaker, Ron Rudaitis, will be here to show and discuss his latest documentary Suburban America: Problems & Promise. Set in a wide array of suburbs around the country, the film presents a dynamic and thought- provoking exploration of suburbia, starting with a profile of the first modern suburban community here on Long Island. It also charts shifting demographics with visits to Muslim-American, Latino, and Asian-American communities, debunks the myths and stereotypes of suburbia, and finally, highlights the best practices of regions that have addressed and solved some of the many challenges of suburbs today. Mr. Rudaitis is an engaging storyteller at heart and this program promises to be both educational and inspirational.

Preserving Your Memories: Saving Your Photos, Slides & Documents Digitally

Tuesday, April 3 at 6:30 p.m.

Most people want to hold onto their memories and history for as long as possible and to pass these treasures on from generation to generation. Victor Sussman, a graphics professional, will show you how scanning skills can save your prized historical photos, slides and important documents.

For more information on any of these programs or to sign up please contact the Adult Reference Desk at 473-0022 or sign up online at www.portjefflibrary.org.