Virtual Author Series featuring Timothy Symington

The Fort Ticonderoga Author Series features presentations by authors of books related to Fort Ticonderoga’s history.

Raising one’s glass is a familiar tradition at weddings and state dinners.  During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, toasting was actually a very formal ritual, bringing members of certain groups together in celebration.  Newspapers printed lists of toast that were given at special events, spreading the ideas and sentiments expressed in the toast throughout the colonies/states.  Author Timothy Symington, in “Huzza!” Toasting a New Nation, 1760-1815, tells the familiar story of the nation’s founding in a unique way:  through the use of political drinking toasts.  The toasts praised the new country’s heroes, insulted the villains, spread national values, and became propaganda for political parties.  The events covered include the American Revolution, the Early Republic, the first five presidential administrations, and the War of 1812.

Timothy Symington is a frequent contributor to the Journal of the American Revolution.  A former educator, editor, and librarian, Tim has talked about toasts on Sirius, the podcast “Dispatches,” libraries, taverns and conferences.  He is a life-long resident of Western Massachusetts.

Your participation in these online programs through the Center for Digital History supports Fort Ticonderoga’s mission to preserve, educate, and provoke an active discussion about the past and its importance to present and future generations.