Gallery talk by Lynn Crocker, book conservator
July 22, 2012
As part of its bicentennial commemoration of the War of 1812, the Portsmouth Historical Society is sponsoring a gallery talk on Saturday, July 28 at 11 a.m. at the John Paul Jones House by Lynn Crocker. The career of Benjamin Floyd, a bookbinder in Portsmouth (turned privateer) during the War of 1812 is the subject of this talk. Crocker, who is familiar to many Seacoast residents as a book conservator, will present her study of Benjamin Floyd and his struggles to establish and maintain a profitable business during these trying times. She will also discuss how his work fits into the book selling and binding business in Portsmouth. In all the discussion of battles won and lost, it is easy to overlook the struggles of ordinary business people during this difficult time. Crocker’s talk helps us to see what life was like for local tradesmen and their families.
The talk is free and open to the public; reservations are not required.
At the John Paul Jones House you can visit the exhibit about the war and its impact on Portsmouth entitled “War of 1812: What it Meant to Portsmouth.” The exhibit examines events during the war and how they influenced lives and fortunes in Portsmouth. It runs through Oct. 31 at the John Paul Jones House, 43 Middle St., Portsmouth. For information, call 436-8420 or email info@portsmouthhistory.org.
1812 News 