Berkshire County Historical Society To Collect Oral Histories

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Berkshire County Historical Society concludes its year-long celebration of the 100th anniversary of the publication of Herman Melville's "Billy Budd, Sailor" with two events that honor the journey that led to the novel's discovery. 
 
"Billy Budd, Sailor" was discovered and published by Herman Melville's granddaughter, Eleanor, who shared a special relationship with her grandfather. On Nov. 16 and Dec. 7 BCHS will record and archive stories of grandparents and grandchildren. 
 
Together with partners from the Housatonic Heritage Oral History Center at Berkshire Community College and the Berkshire Athenaeum, they will create a story scavenger hunt for children and their families, which will include treats and art projects. 
 
All participants will receive a recording of their story. The Nov. 16 event takes place at Herman Melville's historic home, Arrowhead, from noon - 4 pm. 
 
The Berkshire Athenaeum hosts the Dec. 7 event from 10 am - 2 pm. Both events are free. 
 
This program is funded in part by Mass Humanities, which receives support from the Massachusetts Cultural Council and is an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Kwanzaa Celebration Set Saturday in Pittsfield

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Women of Color Giving Circle and the Rites of Passage and Empowerment Program will present their annual community Kwanzaa celebration at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 28, at Zion Lutheran Church, 74 First St.
 
Kwanzaa is a non-religious celebration held Dec. 26 through Jan. 1. The holiday celebrates African and African American culture, with an emphasis on seven principles geared toward uplift and empowerment.  
 
The program, which will be held in the Zion Common Room, will include a youth panel discussion on the topic, "Where do we go from here," featuring Roos Bajnath, Brian Annor-Bash, Ronny Brizan, Patrick Gordon, Olivia Nda, Sadiya Quetti, and Gloria Williams.  
 
The evening's performances will include a special guest, jazz and blues singer Samirah Evans; selections from Abby Percy and James Ryan; and an African dance and drum presentation led by Noel Staples-Freeman.  
 
There is a suggested fee of $20 for adults and $5 for seniors and students. Also, Kwanzaa-themed T-shirts will be on sale for $25-$35. 
 
For more information, contact Shirley Edgerton at 413-496-4602.  
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