Popular songs are a wonderful window for looking into social movements of America's past, as shown by singer/actress Deborah Anne Goss in her program: "Abby Hutchinson’s Sweet Freedom Songs." Deborah performs as New Hampshire-born abolitionist, suffragist, and singer Abby Hutchinson, who became famous singing anti-slavery songs with her brothers as ‘The Hutchinson Family Singers’ during the 1840's. There is a direct connection between the abolition movement and the campaign for woman suffrage, as the stories and songs in this lively program illustrate. There may be opportunities for audience participation, and words for some of the song choruses are provided.

Deborah is a native of Vermont and has lived, sung, acted, and taught in the Boston area for many years. As ‘The Proper Ladies,’ she and Anabel Graetz have performed programs of Victorian Era popular songs throughout New England and on both coasts since 1994. Since 2002, Deborah has developed and performed solo programs of American history in word and song. She also sings with New Hampshire performers Steve Blunt and Marek Bennett as ‘The Hutchinson Heritage Singers’.

This living history performance will take place on the library's back lawn. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets or chairs. In case of inclement weather, the performance will be rescheduled for August. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.