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A best-selling author series by American Ancestors

Stories of American history, heritage, and culture

As part of our mission to educate, inspire and connect people to their family history, the American Inspiration Author Series explores themes of personal identity, families, immigration, and social and cultural history. Discover inspiring and thought-provoking stories of American families and the complex history which has shaped this country.

Brought to you by

The Brue Family Learning Center

American Inspiration: A best-selling author series by American Ancestors

Our Partners

American Inspiration Author Series partners with a variety of influential Boston institutions for many of our events, including Boston Public Library, GBH Forum Network, Museum of African American HistoryPorter Square Books, and the State Library of Massachusetts.

Porter Square Books, Boston Public Library, GBH, Museum of African American History, State Library of Massachusetts

Upcoming Events

Author Event
Online
Free

Load in Nine Times: Poems with Frank X Walker

In honor of Veteran’s Day, we present this remarkable collection of historical poetry: Frank X Walker reimagines the experience of Black Civil War soldiers who enlisted in the Union army in exchange for emancipation. He also brings to life his own ancestors who, among so many others, fought for freedom.

November 13, 2024

American Inspiration Author Series

Author Event
Online
Paid

"The Great River: The Making and Unmaking of the Mississippi" with author Boyce Upholt

The Mississippi River lies at the heart of America: it is a life force, a home to towns and cities, a mode of transport and way for commerce throughout history. Join us to learn about the river’s past and how it transformed our country. Author Boyce Upholt and W. Ralph Eubanks will illuminate its purpose, power, and impact through time, from its source in northern Minnesota to where it meets the Gulf of Mexico below New Orleans.

Moderated by W. Ralph Eubanks
November 18, 2024

American Inspiration Author Series

Author Event
Online
Free

"Ira Gershwin: A Life in Words" with Michael Owen

Gain insight into the life of Ira Gershwin, the man behind some of the most memorable lyrics of the Great American Songbook. Biographer Michael Owen reveals the life of this remarkable American, the son of first-generation immigrants, who has often been in the shadow of his brother George Gershwin.

Moderated by Mark Clague
December 3, 2024

American Inspiration Author Series

Author Event
Online
Paid

"American Connections in A British Country House Alphabet: A Historical and Pictorial Journey" by Curt DiCamillo

Join us for an engaging conversation and exposé illuminating the connections between America and Britain’s finest country houses as revealed in the new book A British Country House Alphabet, Volume 1, by architectural historian Curt DiCamillo.  

December 17, 2024

American Inspiration

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Photo Gallery

Enjoy a selection of photos from past in-person American Inspiration events.

Recent Past Events

Visit our Video Library to watch all past American Inspiration Author Series events