In this episode we’re talking about a recent appraisal at the Massachusetts Historical Society. Founded in 1791, this institution is the oldest historical society in the United States, a treasure trove of documents, artifacts, and rare books that bring the past to life. Ken got to experience a few of these items: letters from Jane Austin and John Winthrop, plus a speech by Thomas Jefferson. We’ll discuss the difficulties of appraising such rare materials—and encourage you to visit the Historical Society and see their extraordinary collections for yourself—on this invaluable new #brattlecast.
Brattlecast #171 - Edward Rowe Snow
In today’s episode we talk about Edward Rowe Snow, friend of the shop, local character, and author of more than 40 books on coastal New England. A natural storyteller, Snow wrote about shipwrecks, ghosts, and pirates in a lively, anecdotal tone that matched his gregarious personality. He signed his works with charming nautical sketches, joking that it was rarer to find an unsigned copy. In addition to his literary accomplishments, he served a long career as “The Flying Santa,” annually hiring a twin-engine plane from which he airdropped bundles of simple Christmas gifts—including Brattle Bookshop books—to isolated lighthouse keepers and their families. Join us for a seasonal #brattlecast on New England legends, and a legacy of giving that continues to this day.