Ezra Ripley lived in the Old Manse and served as Concord’s minister for six decades, from 1778 to 1841, during which he composed and delivered some 3000 sermons. Yet, this step-grandfather of Ralph Waldo Emerson is often overlooked. Who was Ezra Ripley? What impact did he have on his church and town? Join Historian Robert Gross in the backyard at the Old Manse to learn more about Doctor Ripley and how he guided his congregation through political crises and religious challenges in the early American republic and how his ministry shaped Emerson’s views of religion and community in New England. After a reading of one of Ripley’s sermons by a re-enactor, Gross will lead a discussion about what lessons Ripley’s sermons might have for modern communities of faith.

This event is the first in our summer speaker and discussion series. Mark your calender for events in July and August!