May 28, 2009
"Celebrating Paul Cuffe at 250 years"
Sponsored by Westport Historical Society and New Bedford Historical Society
"Celebrating Paul Cuffe at 250 years"
3 PM Saturday June 13, 2009 at the Quaker Meeting house,
930 Main Road, Westport
This year marks the 250th anniversary of Paul Cuffe’s birth. He can reasonably be designated the most illustrious resident of Westport. 
On June 13th, to mark this special anniversary, the Cuffe monument will be rededicated. This will be an opportunity for the community to recognize and reflect upon the remarkable legacy of Paul Cuffe. There will also be a display of Cuffe-related materials. Refreshments generously provided by Lees Market. For more information, please contact Westport Historical Society at 508 636 6011 or westhist@gis.net
Why are we celebrating the life of Paul Cuffe (1759-1817)?
Cuffe was a highly successful African American/Native American mariner and businessman, and one of the wealthiest African Americans of his era!
Cuffe was an early proponent of voting rights and equal educational opportunities without discrimination!
Cuffe struck at the root of the slave trade. He envisioned a triangular trade between Africa, Europe and America, a dream that encompassed not simply the return of slaves “back to Africa” but created an environment for economic independence and pride amongst Africans!
Cuffe established the first school in Westport and funded the new Quaker meeting house in Central Village!
Please join us on Saturday June 13th to learn more about his extraordinary life!
May 11, 2009
King Philip's War with Michael Tougias
7:30 PM, Thursday May 21st
at the Macomber Community House
930 Main Road, Westport
Michael Tougias will give a slide presentation on the war between the Colonists and Native Americans in 1675-76. Tougias is the author of the acclaimed Until I Have No Country (A novel of King Philip's War), and co-author with Eric Schultz of King Philip's War: The History and Legacy of America's Forgotten Conflict.
The presentation will discuss the Indian way of life, Colonial settlements, and the events leading up to the war. The second part covers the battles and the strategy during this cataclysmic war, which on a per capita basis was the bloodiest conflict in our nation's history. Slides include battle sites, period sketches, historic markers, maps, and suggestions for visiting road-side history. Tougias also discusses the challenges of writing a historic novel. The novel includes adventure, romance, and intrigue while staying true to historical facts. A book signing will follow the presentation.
Tougias is the author of 17 books including the national bestseller Fatal Forecast: An Incredible True Tale of Disaster and Survival At Sea.