The Museum of Newport Irish History announces the first talk of its 23rd Annual Lecture Series, featuring guest speaker Dr. John F. Quinn, professor of history at Salve Regina University. “Dr. Grace and Mr. Bennett: Irish Newport’s Gilded Age Leaders” will be presented on Wednesday, September 18, at 6:00 p.m. at the Wyndham Newport Hotel, 240 Aquidneck Ave., Middletown, and virtually via Zoom. The lecture is made possible by a gift from Virginia Pittsley, given in memory of Bill and Jay Pittsley.

Dr. Quinn’s illustrated presentation will look at two men of Irish descent who were prominent figures in Newport’s Gilded Age: Dr. Philip Grace, the longtime pastor of St. Mary’s Church, and James Gordon Bennett, Jr., the flamboyant and unpredictable publisher of the New York Herald.

Doors open at 5: 30 p.m. Complimentary light hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar will be available.

Reservations are required for in-person and virtual participation. There is a $5 fee to attend in person. No fee to Zoom.

For the lecture overview, speaker bio, and links to reserve for in-person or Zoom participation, please visit the “Lectures” page at NewportIrishHistory.org by clicking the website link on this page.

For assistance with reservations, please contact Ann Arnold at (401) 841-5493.