JUNE 26, 2025

"Sea Captains, Slavery and Abolition on the Cape" 

History is often forged in the crucible of opposing forces, and such were the times when the dominance of the maritime industry struck shore against the rising tide of the abolition movement. While we often think these forces clashed far from home, the eye of the storms that shook the Nation passed right overhead here on the Cape.

Dr. Pregot will bring together his three passions:  The legacy of the Cape’s sea captains, the reality of slavery and those who lead the abolition movement…many right here in Cotuit and the nearby villages on the Cape.

JULY 17, 2025

Cotuit Fire Chief

"Fire on the Cape - a Look at its History and the Future"

AUGUST 21, 2025

“Christmas Tree Shops – Everyone Loves a Bargain”

Christmas Tree Shops were not just an icon of New England and The Cape, they were destinations to be sought out…becoming attractions of their own.   Stores boasted a diverse assortment of merchandise from seasonal decorations, home decor, houseware, food, giftware and just about everything else that the public just had to have. These were items you never thought you needed before stepping through the door, but who could resist a bargain?

Anthony Sammarco has written on the unique history of The Christmas Tree Shops, and will speak to their recent descent into bankruptcy.  We’ll hear about the special role they had here, as well as what the future of retail may be here on the Cape.