Local Historian to Discuss Portsmouth Founding at Library Thursday

James Garman, local author, master gardener,and historian, will present a lecture on “The Founding of Portsmouth” on Thursday, March 7 at 6:30 p.m. at the Portsmouth Free Public Library.  Portsmouth was founded in 1638 by a group of nineteen dissidents who left Massachusetts Bay Colony and with the advice and counsel of Roger Williams, settled in Portsmouth, then called "Pocasset" by the local native Americans. The Portsmouth Compact was the official agreement between the original settlers that bound them together.  It was signed on 7 March 1638. This important event in Portsmouth’s history is reflected in the town seal. 

In celebration of Portsmouth’s 375^th birthday and on the 375th anniversary of the signing of the Portsmouth Compact, this lecture is presented in conjunction with the PortsmouthRI 375 committee and Portsmouth Free Public Library.  This lecture is the first of several talks that Mr. Garman will give during the year recounting our rich and fascinating history.  Advance registration is required as seating is limited.  A ticket will be given to each person signing up and must be presented at the entrance the night of the lecture.  Those who have already registered may pick up their tickets at the Library prior to the event.