BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//ESU - ECPv6.8.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:ESU X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.esuus.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for ESU REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T190000 DTSTAMP:20260728T195603 CREATED:20260323T155650Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T155747Z UID:10799-1776276000-1776279600@www.esuus.org SUMMARY:Happy Hour: Adelaide Robineau: Breaking the Porcelain Ceiling DESCRIPTION:Adelaide Alsop Robineau\, (1865-1929) is considered one of America’s preeminent studio potters. She began her ceramics career as a china painter\, painting designs on porcelain blanks produced by other craftsmen. After moving to Syracuse with her husband in 1901\, Robineau started experimenting with making her own porcelain forms. She quickly became a master of the medium\, known for decorative techniques that included intricate excising and carving away of clay. Robineau developed an innovative approach to glazing her ceramics\, experimenting with\, and perfecting complex crystalline glazes in greens\, blues\, ivory\, and gold.In 1910\, Adelaide Robineau created The Scarab Vase\, a porcelain masterpiece that famously took 1\,000 hours of laborious hand-carving to complete. Garth Johnson\, the Everson Museum of Art’s Paul Phillips and Sharon Sullivan Curator of Ceramics will explain how Robineau sparked a revolution in ceramics\, and why she deserves to be seen as a feminist icon. This ESU Happy Hour is sponsored by the Syracuse Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free to attend\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link.REGISTER HEREAbout Garth JohnsonWriter\, curator\, and educator\, Garth Johnson is the Paul Phillips and Sharon Sullivan Curator of Ceramics at the Everson Museum of Art in Syracuse\, New York. Before arriving at the Everson\, Johnson served as the Curator of Ceramics at the Arizona State University Ceramics Research Center. Johnson has also exhibited his work and published his writing nationally and internationally\, including contributions to the recent books Funk published by Natsoulas Press and Funk You Too: Humor and Irreverence in Ceramic Sculpture published by the Museum of Arts and Design. Johnson is a self-described craft activist who explores the craft’s influence and relevance in the 21st century. His research interests range from 1960s and 70s artist-led movements in the field of ceramics to the intersection of clay\, video\, and performance.Cocktail Old PalThe Old Pal is a Prohibition-era cocktail\, a variation of the Negroni\, made with equal parts rye whiskey\, Campari\, and dry vermouth\, typically stirred and garnished with a lemon twist. It is known for being drier and spicier than its cousin\, the Boulevardier (which uses sweet vermouth)\, with the rye providing a peppery kick. Ingredients1 oz Rye Whiskey\, 1 oz Campari\, 1 oz Dry Vermouth\, and Lemon peel for garnish.Use French vermouth to celebrate Robineau’s French husband\, Samuel\, plus Campari to celebrate Robineau’s triumph at the 1911 World’s Fair in Turin\, Italy.Combine all three liquid ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well-chilled (about 30 seconds). Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass (with a large ice cube). Garnish with a lemon twist\, expressing the oils over the drink before dropping it in.  URL:https://www.esuus.org/event/happy-hour-adelaide-robineau-breaking-the-porcelain-ceiling/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Picture1-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T235959 DTSTAMP:20260728T195603 CREATED:20251202T180103Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251204T212902Z UID:9904-1776902400-1777161599@www.esuus.org SUMMARY:2026 Annual General Meeting DESCRIPTION:The English-Speaking Union welcomes its members to NYC for the 2026 ESU Annual Conference. The conference\, under the theme “United by Language\, Inspired by Liberty.” The conference program will include the ESU 2026 Annual General Meeting\, social events such as receptions and meals\, breakout sessions\, panel discussions\, and local tours. We invite you to participate in the camaraderie and help us advance our programs that support teachers\, students\, and recent immigrants. \nHIGHLIGHTS \nRevolution in Old New York: Soldiers\, Spies & Statesmen of the American Revolution Walking Tour:\nTrace the footsteps of revolution through Manhattan’s past and present.\nLunch on historic Stone Street or Fraunces Tavern\nOne of New York City’s oldest surviving streets\, originally paved in 1658.\nand\nArt of the Gilded Age at The Met Museum Guided Tour\nUncover the brilliance and forgotten voices of the Gilded Age at The Met. \nOur Conference venue will be at the ESU House\, 144 East 39th Street\, and the Shelbourne-Sonesta Hotel\, 303 Lexington Avenue\, New York\, NY 10016. We have a special hotel room at The Shelbourne Sonesta Hotel\, which will be available Thursday night through Saturday night. Hotel prices do not include taxes or additional fees\, and prices are valid through March 23\, 2026. We will have a special opportunity to see the USA finals for the International Public Speaking Competition. Space is limited\, first-come-first-served. \n$650 \nPrint Registration Form \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Register Here URL:https://www.esuus.org/event/2026-annual-general-meeting/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/AGM-Header-v2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260427T235959 DTSTAMP:20260728T195603 CREATED:20260129T165919Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T140037Z UID:10244-1777075200-1777334399@www.esuus.org SUMMARY:2026 ESU National Shakespeare Competition Weekend DESCRIPTION:The ESU National Shakespeare Competition returns to New York City for an unforgettable weekend of fun\, education\, and performance. From Saturday\, April 25 to Monday\, April 27\, students\, parents\, teachers\, and ESU members will gather for three exciting days in the Big Apple.Competition Weekend features a full lineup of activities\, including a New York City double-decker bus tour\, acting masterclasses led by theater professionals\, teacher professional development workshops\, and a Broadway performance. The weekend culminates on Monday\, April 27\, with the National Finals of the ESU National Shakespeare Competition at Lincoln Center’s Mitzi Newhouse Theater\, where the nation’s top student performers take the stage.Join us for a weekend that brings Shakespeare to life! URL:https://www.esuus.org/event/2026-esu-national-shakespeare-competition-weekend/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/DSC_0743-1-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260513T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260513T180000 DTSTAMP:20260728T195603 CREATED:20260507T175313Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T180036Z UID:11028-1778691600-1778695200@www.esuus.org SUMMARY:Happy Hour: Exploring Elizabeth I In Her Own Words DESCRIPTION:The New York City Branch of the English Speaking Union invites you to join us on May 13\, 2026 at 5PM EDTESU National Board Member Mary Coleman Way in Conversation with Tamara Meneghini onElizabeth I: In Her Own WordsA critically acclaimed one-woman play\, by Carole Levin\, in collaboration with Tamara Meneghini and Sabin Epstein\, which combines her own letters and speeches\, the poetry of Shakespeare\, and music of the period to reveal a complex woman and ruler reflecting on her life and reign. The play\, which has performed to sold out shows at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe Festival\, explores her inner thoughts\, fears\, loves\, and triumphs\, from the the Spanish Armada to her relationships with her cousin\, Mary\, Queen of Scots; her mother\, Anne Boleyn; and her sister\, Mary Tudor. Challenging perceptions of the “Virgin Queen”\, Elizabeth I: In Her Own Words tackles the topic of her suitors Robert Dudley and the Earl of Essex. The program will include excerpts from the performance.REGISTER HEREAbout Tammy MeneghiniTammy Meneghini is the co-creator\, collaborating writer\, producer\, and plays the role of Elizabeth I inElizabeth I: In Her Own Words\, a full-length solo play.  She has toured the play to various theatres and venues in the United States\, as well as being featured at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2024\, receiving 4 and 5-star reviews to sold out audiences.  She is an accomplished actor and director\, based in Colorado\, where she works frequently onstage and off.  Currently\, she is in the BETC (Boulder Ensemble Theatre Company) production of Mary Jane\, by Amy Herzog.  She is one of the founders of the Rocky Mountain Artists Safety Alliance and collaborated with regional theatre companies to create the Community Standards for Theatre for the Colorado Theatre Community. She is on the faculty at the University of Colorado Boulder\, where she teaches courses in acting\, movement\, voice\, musical theatre\, and the annual senior showcase of work in NYC.  Her work on the Elizabeth Project continues to grow and play to receptive audiences far and wide.  For more information\, please visit:www.tamarameneghini.com About Mary Coleman WayMary Coleman Way has made a lasting impact on the theater community by dedicating more than a decade to leading Southwest Shakespeare Company\, where she is now Vice President of the Board of Directors. A multifaceted artist\, she is a member of the League of Professional Theater Women\, an NEA adjudicator\, and a frequent participant in classical theater auditions and ESU\, Kennedy Center\, and HSMT competitions. She is also a writer for film\, stage\, and television\, a director\, composer\, and administrator.  Mary’s commitment to the arts is furthered through her active involvement on the Boards of Arizona Citizens for the Arts\, Southwest Shakespeare Company\, and the National Board of the English Speaking Union. Beyond Shakespeare\, Mary\, alongside her husband\, founded Fit Via Vi\, a film production company that has expanded to include Broadway and TV\, earning several Tony and Oscar nominations. Most recently\, the company produced Redwood\, the highly acclaimed Broadway musical starring Idina Menzel\, Sugarcane\, a 2025 Academy Award nominee for Best Documentary\, and ARCO\, a 2026 Academy Award nominee for Best Animated Feature Film. \nHappy Hour Cocktail                                                                                                Queen Elizabeth loved a good beer. So take out a Blue Moon with a refreshing slice of lemon or lime\, and enjoy! Cheers! URL:https://www.esuus.org/event/happy-hour-exploring-elizabeth-i-in-her-own-words/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/unnamed-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260603T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260603T180000 DTSTAMP:20260728T195603 CREATED:20260406T213247Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T180544Z UID:10892-1780506000-1780509600@www.esuus.org SUMMARY:Happy Hour: The History of Shakespearean Theatre in Hawaii DESCRIPTION:Wednesday\, June 3\, 2026 • 5:00 PM ET\nSponsored by the ESU Hawaii and Seattle Branches\n \nDid you know that Edwin Booth\, brother of John Wilkes Booth (President Lincoln’s assassin)\, performed Shakespeare plays in the Kingdom of Hawaii in the 1850s? And he wasn’t alone. The Hawaiian Kingdom hosted many actors who came to the fabled islands to perform Shakespeare. Our guest speaker\, Professor Mark Lawhorn\, will speak on the history of Shakespearean theatre in Hawaii. He put together a detailed display on this topic for the exhibit of Shakespeare’s First Folio at Kapi’olani Community College in 2016.\n \nThis ESU Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU Hawaii and Seattle Branches. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required. \nREGISTER HERE \nAbout Mark Lawhorn\, PhD\n\nMark Lawhorn is Professor of English at Kapi’olani Community College\, Honolulu\, Hawaii. In 2016\, he spearheaded the acquisition of a copy of the First Folio as part of the national tour of First Folios in all 50 States to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. Kapi’olani Community College was the only community college selected to host a copy of the treasured collection during its tour. Lawhorn is the President of the ESU Hawaii Branch and is a member of ESU’s National Board of Directors. URL:https://www.esuus.org/event/the-history-of-shakespearean-theatre-in-hawaii/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Picture1-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260624T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260624T180000 DTSTAMP:20260728T195603 CREATED:20260422T200941Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260624T161046Z UID:10950-1782320400-1782324000@www.esuus.org SUMMARY:Happy Hour: "America: Made in Virginia" DESCRIPTION:Wednesday\, June 24\, 2026 • 5:00 PM ET\nSponsored by the ESU Richmond\, VA Branch\n \nWith the Commander of the American Forces from Virginia\, four of the first five Presidents from Virginia\, the authors of the Declaration of Independence\, the Bill of Rights\, and the Constitution from Virginia\, an early Chief Justice of the Supreme Court from Virginia\, multiple signers of the Declaration of Independence from Virginia and\, indeed\, the very land on which Washington D.C. stands from Virginia\, it is safe to say that Virginia was indispensable in the creation of our country.  Ellen LeCompte\, President of the ESU Richmond VA Branch\, will share the people\, places\, and things that Virginia contributed to successfully establishing our democracy.\n \nThis ESU Happy Hour is sponsored by the Richmond\, VA Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free to attend\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link. \nREGISTER HERE \nAbout Ellen LeCompte\n \nEllen LeCompte is president of the ESU Richmond Branch\, a former Regional Chair\, and an ESU SSE alumna. She is a graduate of the College of William and Mary and is a proud Virginian and an acknowledged expert on the UK listed by Travel + Leisure magazine as one of their top Advisors in the United States. She has co-authored two books on the late Queen Elizabeth II’s historic relationship between Virginia and Great Britain. In 2025\, Ellen was honored by King Charles III to be made a Dame of the Order of St John\, one of Britain’s oldest chivalric orders dating back to the 12th century.\n  \nCocktail\nIt should be a Mint Julep served in a pewter Jefferson Cup—preferably made with Bourbon from George Washington’s distillery at Mount Vernon!\n \nIngredients\n8 mint leaves\n1/4-ounce simple syrup*\n2 ounces bourbon\nGarnish: mint sprig\nGarnish: Angostura bitters (optional)\nSteps\nIn a silver or pewter cup or rocks glass\, lightly muddle the mint leaves in the simple syrup.\nAdd the bourbon then pack the glass tightly with crushed ice.\nStir until the cup is frosted on the outside.\nTop with more crushed ice to form an ice dome and garnish with a mint sprig and a few drops of bitters (optional).\n*Simple Syrup Ingredients\n1/2 cup granulated sugar\n1/2 cup water\nPrepare Simple Syrup\nAdd the sugar and water to a small saucepan over medium heat.\nStir until sugar is dissolved.\nLet cool\, then pour into a glass jar and seal tightly with a lid.\nSimple syrup will keep\, refrigerated\, for about one month. URL:https://www.esuus.org/event/happy-hour-america-made-in-virginia/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/America-Made-in-Virginia-Vers.-2-FB-Event.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260712T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260716T235959 DTSTAMP:20260728T195603 CREATED:20260514T173909Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260601T160532Z UID:11118-1783814400-1784246399@www.esuus.org SUMMARY:ESU 2026 Founder’s Award Gala and National Patron Tour “Ovid and Shakespeare’s Metamorphoses” DESCRIPTION:Dear Friends\, \n\n\n\nThank you again for being part of the truly special week in New York City this past April — a week that brought together the Annual General Conference\, the National Shakespeare Competition\, and\, as its highlight\, the Celebrate Legacy – Inspire the Future reception marking the 25th anniversary of the ESU House and honoring the leadership donors to the first-ever ESU Capacity Building Campaign. We appreciated the support\, enthusiasm and generosity you brought to the evening. Your presence made the event truly memorable\, and we are deeply grateful for your continued commitment to the ESU. \n\n\n\nI am delighted to reiterate the wonderful news I announced that evening: in just one year\, the ESU Capacity Building Campaign has raised over $900\,000\, more than 90% of our $1 million goal\, thanks to you\, our most generous leadership donors. With one year remaining in the Campaign\, we will soon open this effort to the broader ESU community. I have every confidence that they will follow your example and help us exceed our goal. \n\n\n\nWe are profoundly grateful for the generous contributions of so many of you in attendance. Among our leadership supporters is Mr. Donald Best\, who will be the honoree of the 2026 Founder’s Award Gala in London on July 14 at the Oxford–Cambridge Club. \n\n\n\nMr. Donald Best is a distinguished Board member\, devoted steward of our mission\, passionate internationalist and one of the ESU’s most generous donors. His commitment to the ESU of the United States has extended far beyond our national borders: for many years he has championed ESUs around the world and enthusiastically promoted the global fellowship at the heart of our mission. \n\n\n\nHis recognition will be a highlight of an extraordinary week of activities surrounding the Gala. \n\n\n\nUnder the theme of Metamorphoses and guided by Dr. Catherine Loomis\, our program in and around London will feature a series of specially arranged visits to palaces and cultural institutions\, offering behind-the-scenes access and opportunities to meet members of historic families\, distinguished scholars and individuals whose work and insights illuminate the week’s theme. These exceptional experiences\, together with intimate receptions and shared moments with the international ESU community\, will culminate on Tuesday evening\, July 14\, with the Founder’s Award Gala at the Oxford and Cambridge Club honoring our dear friend Donald Best. \n\n\n\nIt promises to be a remarkable week of celebrations\, and I very much hope some of you will join us. Space is limited to 16 participants\, so I encourage you to reserve your place soon by following the link provided. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE  \n\n\n\nThank you once again for your support\, your friendship\, and your belief in the ESU’s mission. I look forward to seeing you in London. \n\n\n\nWith warm regards\,Dr. Quinn PeeperChairman\, The English-Speaking Union \n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Online Registration \n PDF Registration Form\n Itinerary\n Participant Agreement\n Hotel Information URL:https://www.esuus.org/event/2026-national-patron-tour/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/quinn-letter.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260715T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260715T180000 DTSTAMP:20260728T195603 CREATED:20260528T180300Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260624T161350Z UID:11198-1784134800-1784138400@www.esuus.org SUMMARY:Happy Hour: Halifax Resolves DESCRIPTION:During the 250th Anniversary of the birth of our nation\, many focus on the colonial activities centering around New England. A little-known event occurred in North Carolina in the little village of Halifax that helped turn the tide and create our nation. The Halifax Resolves and the three North Carolina Delegates that attended the Second Congressional Congress were the catalysts that brought us to the founding of the United States of America. \n\n\n\nWe invite all ESU members and guests to be part of ESU’s continuing celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary with this Happy Hour. Brian Burns will describe a historic event that was the first official action for independence from any of the thirteen British colonies in continental North America. \n\n\n\nThis ESU Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU Sandhills Pinehurst\, N.C. Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE \n\n\n\nAbout Brian Burns \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBrian Burns is a retired Army Officer living in Pinehurst\, NC. He is thePresident of the Sandhills Pinehurst\, N.C. Branch of the ESU. He is also onthe ESU Happy Hour Committee\, and a member of the ESUUS NationalBoard of Directors. An avid military historian\, Brian earned his degrees inUS Military History from Purdue University and the University of Arkansas.With many of the battlefields of the American Revolution and the Civil War within driving distance\, Brian has traveled and visited most up and down the Eastern Seaboard. Although not known for the most famous actions in the American Revolution\, as we celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States\, he will show how North Carolinaplayed a significant role in the formation of our nation. \n\n\n\nCocktail:Colonial Rum PunchMake ahead: Oleo Saccharum (the colonial secret weapon) Peel strips of lemon zest andtoss with ½ cup of sugar and let rest for 30 minutes. The oils from the peel dissolve intothe sugar\, creating a fragrant\, silky syrup.Prepare:Combine one shot of rum\, ½ cup of citrus juice and one tablespoon of oleo saccharum.Add cold water (or cooled black tea for extra depth – a popular colonial trick). Add alarge ice cube and enjoy. URL:https://www.esuus.org/event/happy-hour-halifax-resolves/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot-2026-05-28-at-12.32.41-PM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260729T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260729T180000 DTSTAMP:20260728T195603 CREATED:20260625T170306Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260625T170308Z UID:11288-1785344400-1785348000@www.esuus.org SUMMARY:Happy Hour: The Loyalist and the Patriot DESCRIPTION:Step into a gripping dialogue with acclaimed prize-winning historical biographer Flora Fraser and Doug Bradburn\, President and CEO of George Washington’s Mount Vernon\, as they reexamine the American Revolution through a provocative lens. This conversation challenges the familiar narrative of unity and independence. It reveals a nation divided—neighbors\, friends\, even families torn apart by opposing allegiances. Was this truly a revolution\, or America’s first civil war? Through vivid storytelling and historical insight\, Fraser and Bradburn explore the deeply personal conflicts between those who risked everything for independence and those who remained steadfastly loyal to the British Crown.ESU continues celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary with this intriguing Happy Hour. Expect a thought-provoking journey into the complexities of loyalty\, identity\, and the true cost of freedom. \n\n\n\nThis Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU New York City Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link.  \n\n\n\nRegister Here \n\n\n\nAbout Flora Fraser \n\n\n\nFlora Fraser is a historical biographer\, based in London\, specializing in archival research on women of the eighteenth century in Europe and in America. Her books include Beloved Emma: The Life of Emma\, Lady Hamilton\, The Unruly Queen: The Life of Queen Caroline\, Princesses: The Daughters of George III\, and Venus of Empire: The Life of Pauline Bonaparte. \n\n\n\nHer recent book\, The Washingtons: George and Martha\, won the 2016 George Washington Book Prize. Her new life of Scottish heroine\, Flora Macdonald is available in the UK as Flora Macdonald ‘Pretty Young Rebel’ (Bloomsbury) and in the US as Flora Macdonald: “Pretty Young Rebel”: Her Life and Story (Knopf).About Douglas Bradburn\, PhD \n\n\n\nDouglas Bradburn is the President and CEO of George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Bradburn joined Mount Vernon in 2013 and was the Founding Director of The George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon. He became the 11th Director of George Washington’s Mount Vernon in 2018. He is an award-winning author and well-known scholar of early American history. Bradburn is the author of The Citizenship Revolution: Politics and the Creation of the American Union\, 1774-1804\, and three anthologies\, including Early Modern Virginia: Reconsidering the Old Dominion. He is the co-founder and editor of the award-winning book series\, Early American Histories\, at the University of Virginia Press\, and the winner of numerous awards\, grants\, and fellowships\, including the yearlong Gilder Lehrman Research Fellowship at the Robert H. Smith International Center for Jefferson Studies at Monticello.Exclusive Patron Membership OfferFor a limited time\, we invite you to enjoy a special benefit available only through this ESU Happy Hour event. Members who upgrade to a National Patron Membership\, and new supporters who join at the National Patron level\, will receive an autographed copy of Flora Fraser’s acclaimed book\, Flora Macdonald: Pretty Young Rebel her life and story\,” a unique keepsake from this exceptional presentation featuring Flora Fraser and Doug Bradburn.Patron Members play a vital role in sustaining the English-Speaking Union’s mission to educate\, inspire\, and connect people through the power of the English language and its rich cultural heritage. Signed copies are limited and will be available while supplies last. We hope you will take this opportunity to become a National Patron Member and help ensure the continued strength and impact of the ESU for years to come.Colonial Rum Punch“One of sour\, two of sweet\, three of strong\, four of weak.”Ingredients:1 part fresh lime juice (the “sour”)2 parts sugar or simple syrup (the “sweet”)3 parts dark rum (the “strong”)4 parts water or weak tea (the “weak”)Optional: grated nutmeg on top (very traditional!)Instructions:Stir the lime juice and sugar together until the sugar dissolves.Add the rum and mix well.Pour in the water or tea and stir again.Taste and adjust—colonial recipes were flexible.Serve over ice (or without if you want to stay historically accurate). URL:https://www.esuus.org/event/happy-hour-the-loyalist-and-the-patriot/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/aug-2026-hh.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260819T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260819T180000 DTSTAMP:20260728T195603 CREATED:20260714T150942Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260714T151048Z UID:11393-1787158800-1787162400@www.esuus.org SUMMARY:Happy Hour: Connecticut: "The Provisions State" DESCRIPTION:As ESU Happy Hours continue to salute America’s 250th birthday\, we turn to the great state of Connecticut. By the mid-to-late 1700’s\, western Connecticut had developed as a quiet\, agricultural “backwater\,” landlocked and insulated from the politics and secessionist turmoil of the big colonial cities. Nevertheless\, during the Revolutionary War\, Connecticut earned the nickname “The Provisions State\,” by supplying vast amounts of meat\, grain\, clothing\, and weaponry to General George Washington’s Continental Army\, and was second only to Massachusetts in the number of men serving in the war. \n\n\n\nGovernor Jonathan Trumbull was the only colonial governor to openly and actively support the rebellion from the beginning. George Washington heavily relied on Trumbull’s logistical support\, famously referring to him as “Brother Jonathan.”  Many other soldiers\, spies and resistance activities came out of “the Nutmeg State.” Join us as our guest speaker\, Judge Edward Krumeich\, relates the many lesser-known military men\, skirmishes\, and resistance activities that came out of Connecticut. \n\n\n\nThis Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU Greenwich\, CT Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE \n\n\n\nAbout Judge Edward Krumeich  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEdward Krumeich serves as a judge of the Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford and is a former partner at the Greenwich law firm of Ivey\, Barnum & O’Mara. A lifelong Greenwich resident\, he developed an early appreciation for the town’s rich history and traditions through his mother\, Marie C. Krumeich\, a public-school teacher and respected historian who authored A Child’s History of Greenwich. Inspired by her passion for local history\, Judge Krumeich has written extensively about Greenwich’s past in a variety of publications. \n\n\n\nBefore taking the bench\, Ed built an impressive record of public service. A graduate of Hamilton College and the Case Western Reserve University School of Law\, he served for many years in a variety of leadership roles in local government. His service included serving as Chairman of the Greenwich Board of Social Services\, as a member of the Representative Town Meeting\, and on the Budget Committee of the Board of Estimate and Taxation\, the town’s finance board. \n\n\n\nEd is also an experienced performer\, with featured roles in community theater and performances with “The Off Sounders\,” a local men’s a cappella group. His wife\, Elizabeth\, is also a lawyer and active community member. As a student\, Beth received the ESU Isabel Carden Griffin Memorial Scholarship to study in England during her gap year between high school and college. URL:https://www.esuus.org/event/happy-hour-connecticut-the-provisions-state/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/8-29-26-hh.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260916T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260916T170000 DTSTAMP:20260728T195603 CREATED:20260728T152623Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260728T152656Z UID:11460-1789574400-1789578000@www.esuus.org SUMMARY:Happy Hour: Becoming American: Philadelphia's Story DESCRIPTION:Philadelphia\, PA.\, America’s first capital\, held a pivotal role as the cradle of American democracy. When George Washington took the oath of office in 1789\, Philadelphia had the largest free and literate community of Africans in the entire British Atlantic. This community raised families\, built institutions\, created opportunities for self-emancipated Africans to continue north\, fought for equal rights\, and they participated in public life. They exemplified the ideals of the new republic. Oliver St. Clair Franklin is the creator and co-executive producer of a feature length documentary of our Founding Era through the lens of the Black Philadelphia community of that time. Franklin’s documentary\, Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story\, explores how diverse groups that included European colonists\, Native Americans\, free Black communities\, and enslaved Africans lived and worked side-by-side to shape the new United States. Join this ESU Happy Hour as Oliver Franklin describes his film as a shared national and international historical record that explains how America came to be\, how it expanded\, and how its founding ideals continue to resonate today. This Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU Philadelphia Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE About Oliver St. Clair Franklin\, CBE \n\n\n\nOliver St. Clair Franklin curated one of the first Black Film Festivals in the US (1972-78) and then produced documentary films. He became the first Deputy City Representative for Arts and Culture for the City of Philadelphia (1984-90). After his municipal role\, Oliver became an executive at several financial services firms specializing in institutional investments and was Co-Managing Partner of the first US mutual fund to invest in The Republic of South Africa. He has served on many civic and cultural institutions including the National Endowment for the Arts\, the Pennsylvania Humanities Council\, The Philadelphia Foundation\, and The Independence Historic Trust. He also served as the Honorary British Consul in Philadelphia and received the OBE and CBE honors from the late monarch. A Baltimore native\, Oliver is a graduate of Lincoln University (Pa) and Oxford University. He is also a Hon. Fellow of Balliol College\, Oxford.  Cocktail: The Founders’ Toast A simple bourbon-based cocktail tying to colonial/early American roots:-2 oz bourbon-3/4 oz fresh lemon juice-1/2 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey + warm water\, stirred)-Top with a splash of ginger beer-Garnish: lemon twist or mint sprigShake bourbon\, lemon\, honey syrup with ice; strain into a glass with fresh ice; top with ginger beer. Non-alcoholic version: swap bourbon for apple cider\, same lemon/honey/ginger beer combo.  URL:https://www.esuus.org/event/happy-hour-becoming-american-philadelphias-story/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/9-16-26-hh.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261007T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261007T170000 DTSTAMP:20260728T195603 CREATED:20260728T153927Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260728T154010Z UID:11465-1791388800-1791392400@www.esuus.org SUMMARY:Happy Hour: Daniel Boone: The First Kentuckian DESCRIPTION:Daniel Boone (1734-1820) was an American pioneer\, trailblazer\, outdoorsman\, revolutionary\, and adventurer whose frontier exploits made him one of the first folk heroes of the United States. The story of the early settlement of Kentucky is well documented\, and Daniel Boone is most famous for his exploration and settlement of what is now the U.S. state of Kentucky\, which was then beyond the western borders of the Thirteen Colonies. \n\n\n\nThere is a difference between the myth and the man who actually existed. Daniel Boone lived an extraordinary life—even if he didn’t wear a coonskin cap! Boone was celebrated in his own lifetime especially after stories of his adventures were published in 1784\, making him famous both in America and Europe. \n\n\n\nThis ESU Happy Hour welcomes acclaimed actor\, Kevin Hardesty\, who has created a one-man play “Daniel Boone: The First Kentuckian.” Hardesty brings the famous frontiersman to life as he portrays Boone as a man who established himself as an accomplished hunter and explorer in Kentucky. We will see Hardesty live\, in-person\, as well as watch some recorded segments from his one-man play. \n\n\n\nAs ESU continues to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary\, it is noteworthy that Daniel Boone moved to Kentucky and established a settlement just over 250 years ago in 1774. \n\n\n\nJoin us for this special ESU Happy Hour sponsored by the ESU Kentucky Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE \n\n\n\nAbout Kevin Hardesty \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHardesty received a B.F.A in acting/theatre from the University of Kentucky in 1986\, and has since performed in theatre\, film\, and television\, including prominent roles in Biloxi Blues\, Hamlet\, Macbeth\, and Romeo and Juliet and leading roles in Of Mice and Men and A Streetcar Named Desire. Film and TV credits include co-starring roles in Not to Forget\, Heathers\, Happy Together\, 100 Proof\, The Cavanaughs\, TV 101\, and Family of Spies. Kevin also appeared with Ashley Judd in the Arthur Miller teleplay Interview with Ryan for PBS. He has been an actor\, writer\, and director for more than 20 years. URL:https://www.esuus.org/event/happy-hour-daniel-boone-the-first-kentuckian/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/10-7-26-hh.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR