Whitney Literary Society to Debut at New Haven Museum

While July 4, 1776, is considered the birthdate of America, it is the events prior to and since that define much of our shared history. On Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., the New Haven Museum will debut the Whitney Literary Society, an informal, bimonthly book discussion delving into that colorful history, and focus largely on New Haven which was once the center of governance, education, trade, and culture in Connecticut. Free with museum admission. 

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Details and registration here: newhavenmuseum.org/52580-2/

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Snow date Thursday, February 5, 2026.

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“This book group is ideal for New Haven enthusiasts who are eager to explore the city’s history and want to experience that history firsthand with original documents and manuscripts,” says Librarian Emma Norden, who researched and developed the project. Each Whitney Literary Society event will include a discussion of a book and either an up-close viewing of materials in the New Haven Museum’s vast collection, a visit from an author, or a guided tour of a related exhibit. Visitors may register to read and discuss any or all of the books.

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The year-long series will progress through the Puritan, colonial, and industrial eras into more contemporary New Haven history.

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