Between May 21 and June 16, 1791, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison traveled together through Upstate New York and parts of New England. Though the new nation was in a moment of political tension, Madison said the trip was for “health, recreation and curiosity.” In honor of Presidents' Day, join esteemed author and professor Louis Masur as he traces their journey, exploring shared interests in landscape, botany, history and Indigenous vocabulary. This lecture draws from his latest book, "Founding Friendships: Jefferson, Madison, and the Northern Tour of 1791," which brings new insight into the enduring bond between these two Founding Fathers - what Jefferson later called “a source of constant happiness.”

A viewing of the online lecture will be held in the Event Center at Abbot Public Library, followed by a discussion session.

Registration is required and limited to 35. Please register below. Can't attend in person? Please register for the program or join the Wait List. Everyone who is registered will be sent the recording.

Louis P. Masur is Board of Governors Distinguished Professor of American Studies and History at Rutgers University and the author of many books, including most recently, “The Sum of Our Dreams: A Concise History of America” (2020).

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