Transatlantic History: The Charles Thomson Initiative
In late 2024 I was invited to be part of a transatlantic effort to bring attention to the life and work of one of the lesser known founders of the United States of America ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Born in County Derry on the island of Ireland and arriving in New Castle, Delaware as a penniless orphan, Charles Thomson rose to national prominence as the secretary of the Continental and Confederation Congresses, serving in that capacity from 1774-1789, the only founder to serve in Congress throughout the period. While he is best known for his political work, his achievements in private life and his forward-thinking humanity were no less impressive, and he is deserving of rediscovery by the Irish and American people.
Work-In-Progress: American Civil War Era Novel
I’m working on a novel set among a divided family in Columbia, South Carolina and Malone, New York during the critical years of 1848-1865. I studied the literary and sociocultural history of the American Civil War extensively in undergrad and grad school and wrote two theses on related topics. I lived in Columbia for five years and have visited Malone frequently as my husband’s family is from the area, so I’ve become familiar with the local history of both. It’s been rewarding to watch all these threads of my experience and education work together in the writing process–and a little disturbing to note how relevant many of the characters’ experiences are to our own time.
Local History: Derry 300
I was involved in several projects relating to Derry Presbyterian Church (USA)’s 300th Anniversary in 2024. My major contributions included co-leading a group of 3rd-5th graders in writing and illustrating a picture book about Derry’s history (see Books), writing essays on several historical topics, and co-leading classes and tours for the adult and youth travel groups that visited Scotland and Northern Ireland.