Religious & Intellectual Gatherings cont.

Not only did religion occupy the minds of residents, but the Lyceum movement, which had begun to take hold in Massachusetts became popular in Edgartown as well. These public meetings provided an opportunity to debate both local and national civic issues. Held in the main hall of the former Davis Academy in Edgartown, women were invited to attend, but not to participate in the discussions. They were told they could show up, but had to keep quiet!

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Martha's Vineyard Museum