Are you looking for a fun way to learn more about the history of Harford County? The Historical Society of Harford County (HSHC) has been offering their Brown Bag Lunch Series since January 2017. This popular series of one hour lectures draws people on their lunchbreak and also those who make the Historical Society their destination specifically to attend the series.
The lecture series is offered on the second Tuesday of each month from 12:30 – 1:30 and the focus is most often related specifically to Harford County and its long and treasured history. The HSHC Events Committee brainstorms which topics should be covered and then committee members seek appropriate speakers to bring the lectures to life. The committee works with area speaker’s bureaus, colleges and HSHC members to bring the best speakers for each subject. While making selections, they keep in mind that history is happening each day, so many topics deal with current subjects, like the 2018 talk on the growth of wineries in the Harford County. Some examples from the 2019 series include Harford County’s involvement in the Underground Railroad; the impact the Aberdeen Proving Ground has had on Harford County, and where to find the works of an internationally known religious artist in Harford County.
The series got its start when HSHC recognized that residents are often too busy to attend events on weekends and that many can’t get out in the evenings. A lunchtime program seemed a way to bring area office workers and retired people together for an hour on a weekday afternoon. Many of the attendees come each month. Past HSHC President, Carol Deibel, says, “The Brown Bag lunch series covers a wide variety of subjects and features some amazingly knowledgeable speakers. It makes county history accessible to everyone while providing an entertaining and enjoyable break for your day. We hope you will take the opportunity to explore the county’s past and the Society’s vast collection of memorabilia and genealogical records.”
The Brown Bag Lunch Series is held at society headquarters at 143 North Main Street. The event is free to members of the society and $5 for non-members. Feel free to bring your lunch with you! Tables are provided. More information can be found on their website.
