THE FRIENDS OF FORT TRUMBULL-OCTOBER MEETING

 THE MIDNIGHT BELLES PERFORMING THE MUSIC OF THE WAR OF 1812

History has shown that in war, music has been the soundtrack of the consciousness of each Era. Sometimes, the songs were to encourage a cause or instill patriotic zeal.  Sometimes, they commemorated important sea and land battles.  Often, they attempted to provide comfort to those who had suffered.  As we finish our examination of the War of 1812, we will examine the music and mind-sets during the War of 1812.

 On October 24, 2013, The Friends of Fort Trumbull State Park will present Faye Ringel and April Grant- the Midnight Belles- as they present music from 1812.  Ms. Ringel and Ms. Grant have performed programs with historical, nautical, and supernatural themes before audiences all over the East Coast.

 In August of 2010, Dr. Ringel was named professor emeritus at the Coast Guard Academy. Ringel has taught more than 3,000 cadets during her career.  “I cannot imagine a better place to teach…” said Ringel.  In addition to her teaching career, she has haunted parlors and libraries from New England to New Zealand, as scholar, storyteller, and author of New England’s Gothic Literature.  She has also performed as a solo singer of traditional songs- sweet, sad, and bawdy.

 April, from Northampton and now living in Dorchester, MA, has sung old songs all her life.  She has said, “For as long as I can remember, I have enjoyed singing songs, telling stories, and reciting poems.”  April, along with Faye, is a veteran participant in Mystic Seaport’s Sea Music Festival.

 The presentation will take place at 7 p.m. in the Conference Center at Fort Trumbull State Park, 90 Walbach St., New London.

The interesting Gift Store at the Fort will be open from 6:30-7 p.m. before the meeting so that participants can view and purchase the many historically themed items.  The public is invited and new members are always welcomed. www.fortfriends.org