Harvard’s unique history and identity will be celebrated with an event called “A Common History Day” on Saturday, Sept. 25, that will transform the Harvard Common into a time machine.
“I think it’s amazing what’s right here under our noses that we may never have noticed,” said Carlene Phillips, who published a book this summer called “A Common History: The Story of Harvard’s Identity.”
The event, organized by the Harvard Historical Society, is expected to include living-history characters, a talk on the history of the Common based on Phillips’ book, a children’s scavenger hunt, socialization with goats, and fiber art demonstrations. Four living-history characters who lived around the Common in the 19th and 20th centuries will recount their past experiences and share them with the community.
Among the living-history characters will be Dr. Herbert Royal, who had a practice at 1 Elm Street. “Dr. Royal used to go out in the winter in his buggy before the roads were plowed, to go deliver a baby or something,” said Phillips, adding that the present owner is welcoming people to walk through the beautiful gardens located on the property.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to have photos of themselves in the town stocks, pretending they are locked up for a crime, such as skipping church. Phillips said she hopes this event will remind people how exciting it is to gather on the Common. “There are so many new people in town, and they’re the ones I really wrote my book for,” said Phillips. “The more you know the history of the town, the more you appreciate it and feel a sense of place and community.”
“A Common History Day” will take place from noon to 4 p.m. Phillips will give her presentation at 1 and 2:30 p.m., and the living-history characters will share their experiences immediately after. For more information, visit the events page on the Harvard Historical Society website (https://harvardhistory.org/events/).
