Old Saybrook Historical Society program features authors

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OLD SAYBROOK >> Neglected for years and often unknown, African-American history in Connecticut is the subject of a presentation sponsored by the Old Saybrook Historical Society, in cooperation with the Acton Public Library, at the Library on Wednesday, March 19 at 7 p.m.

Speakers include Elizabeth J. Normen, editor of the popular history journal “CT Explored,” and special guest Elisabeth Petry, author and daughter of noted American novelist, and Saybrook resident, Ann Petry (1908–1997) and niece of Anna Louise James (1886-1977) the first female pharmacist in Connecticut and long time proprietor of James Pharmacy.

Normen is the editor of the just published “African-American Connecticut Explored,” an informative and insightful collection of essays by leading scholars of Connecticut and African-American history.

Petry is an author in her own right and a contributor to “African-American Connecticut Explored.”

She is the daughter of Ann Petry, who wrote several children’s books as well as the critically acclaimed “The Narrows.” She is perhaps best known for writing the first novel by an African-American author to sell more than a million copies, titled “The Street.” She is also the niece of well-known and beloved pharmacist Anna Louise James (1886-1977). Both Ann Petry and Miss James were residents of Old Saybrook and are subjects of essays in the new publication.

At the conclusion of the talk books will be available for sale and signing. The public is invited and there is no charge. to attend.