Lunch & Learn - "Dreams of Freedom"

Date: Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Time: 11:00 a.m.

Cost: $20 (fee will cover the program and lunch, meal tax and gratuity included)

Location: "The Gallery" at the H.A.R.P. Museum located on the second floor of the Irish Cultural Center of the Mohawk Valley at 623 Columbia St., Utica

Register: https://bit.ly/453PnEq 

Contact: Chris Hoke at (315) 733-4228 Ext. 6 or irishccmv@gmail.com

The H.A.R.P. Museum at the Irish Cultural Center of the Mohawk Valley continues its popular “Lunch and Learn” series on Wednesday, June 11 at 11 AM , when local author Marilyn Higgins presents her most recent work of historical fiction, “Dreams of Freedom.”

“…a breathtaking close-up view of the people, places and events that shaped a young America before the civil war”

“Dreams of Freedom” is about the promise of America, and one Irish woman’s determination to see her new nation live up to its creed, despite slavery, Indian removal, anti-Catholicism and her own lack of the right to vote, own property or attend University. 

Set along the Erie Canal in the turbulent years before the Civil War, “Dreams of Freedom” follows twenty-year old Aileen O’Malley and her captivating journey through the secret networks, bold escapes, and brave friendships that shaped the fight for freedom along the Erie Canal. Blending history and mystery, the novel captures the spirit of Upstate New York during a pivotal era in American history.

Meet the author

Marilyn Higgins has served as Chief Economic Development Officer for National Grid and Syracuse University, as well as being a twenty-year volunteer with the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor. Her passion for the area’s rich history and belief in its profound impact on America’s national identity motivated her to write “Dreams of Freedom.” 

IYKYK, Lunch is more than simply a mid-day meal!

Those of you who have attended our Lunch and Learn events in the past already know this: Lunch is so much more than just a meal; it’s a relaxed and congenial environment where the day’s presentation is often discussed among the attendees, and where people can interact directly with the presenter.  

Your $20 registration fee will cover the program and lunch (tax and gratuity are included). All those interested in attending are asked to register at https://bit.ly/453PnEq or leave a message at (315) 733-4228, Ext 6. 

Accessibility

The H.A.R.P. Museum is located on the second floor of the Irish Cultural Center of the Mohawk Valley, 623 Columbia St, Utica. All are welcome to attend this program and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

Join us for our latest “Lunch and Learn” – Where you can feed your mind and your belly! ☘️

See all of our upcoming cultural events!