The Frederick Lee Lectures
Since 2008, The Madison Historical Society has proudly offered the Frederick Lee Lecture Series. This engaging series of history presentations in midwinter are offered by local scholars, authors, and resident researchers. Each presenter has a passion for regional history and a flair for the stories that bind us to the past as they inform the future.
Recent themes have focused on local shipbuilding, immigration, notable Madison women, the growth of our summer community, Madison’s historic farms, and the evidence of history in Madison's natural and architectural landscapes.
In 2026, the Frederick Lee Lectures Series celebrated its nineteenth year. The Society is grateful for the support the Lectures receive from the community, and we give special thanks to the Madison Foundation and its Roberta Isleib Fund, which have provided generous financial gifts to fund the Lectures. We also thank the First Congregational Church of Madison for providing us a home at its Hubley Hall, and we offer special gratitude to its staff, who prepare for us and welcome us so warmly.
2026 Lectures
Madison 200: Insights into Our History
Who were the Hammonassets? The Interrelationship of Indigenous Communities at the time of English Colonization
Tuesday, January 27
6 pm
Presenter: Jim Powers, founding member of Dudley Farm Museum and Dawnland Museum
A retired history teacher from Guilford High School, Jim is an archaeologist, researcher, lecturer, and author.
Suggested Donation: $10 / FREE to MHS members
Location: In-person at the First Congregational Church’s Hubley Hall and via Zoom
Madison’s Role in the Civil War
Sunday, March 8
4 pm
Presenter: Charlie Fischer, former Daniel Hand High School History Teacher
A Madison icon who was beloved by his former students, Charlie will set the stage by providing the social, economic, and technological context of life in Madison in the early and mid-1860s. He will tell the story of the celebrated 14th Regiment, Connecticut Volunteers, an infantry unit that participated in many key engagements.
Suggested Donation: $10 / FREE to MHS members
Location: In-person at the First Congregational Church’s Hubley Hall and via Zoom
A Postcard History of Madison in the Twentieth Century
Sunday, March 22
4 pm
Presenter: Henry Griggs, Madison Municipal Historian and MHS Preservation Chair
Henry's presentation will highlight the Golden Age of Postcards, Madison then and now, postcards for commerce, and images of Lost Madison. Guests will enjoy dozens of images from his personal collection of more than 900 postcards.
Suggested Donation: $10 / FREE to MHS members
Location: In-person at the First Congregational Church’s Hubley Hall and via Zoom
Important Visitor Information
Suggested Donation: $10 adults / FREE to MHS members
All programs are recommended for adults and children 10 and older.