History of Christmas

Did you know that from 1659 to 1681, the celebration of Christmas was outlawed in Boston, and law-breakers were fined five shillings for breaking the law?   Irish historian Sean Murphy will explain this oddity and many others in the winding history of Christmas through the ages. From the ancient societies who celebrated the winter equinox to the Roman Christians who built on those traditions to the practices of more modern times, Mr. Murphy will guide you through it all in his History of Christmas presentation. You’ll also learn about the rich yuletide traditions in Ireland and enjoy music and videos of the season.

Sean Murphy, is a teacher of Irish history, music, and dance. Over the past 12 years he has taught courses at the Irish Cultural Center of New England in Canton, Cape Cod Sons of Erin, Cape Cod Cultural Center, the Cotuit Center for the Arts, and at venues on Nantucket.  He speaks on Irish cultural, historic, and general issues at libraries, and at private and community events across the Cape and beyond. 

The BFL is cohosting this program with the Bigelow Free Public Library and four other libraries. This program will be held over Zoom. Please register at the Bigelow Library website to receive the Zoom meeting link.