Newport historian to spotlight local Celtic leaders in upcoming lecture

The Museum of Newport Irish History is gearing up for its third lecture in the 23rd Annual Lecture Series. The event takes place on Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. at the Wyndham Newport Hotel in Middletown, Rhode Island.

Dr. Marian Mathison Desrosiers will give an illustrated talk called "A Celtic Team: Genevieve McGlinchey and Wallace Mathison, Newport Community Leaders in the 1950s to 1980s."

Desrosiers, an independent scholar and author, will spotlight her parents' contributions to Newport over four decades. The Mathisons, of Irish and Scottish heritage, took on key roles in various Newport organizations. They worked to improve the community, transform neighborhoods, and tackle social issues.

The couple played a big part in starting traditions like Christmas in Newport and Newport Irish Heritage Month. They also served on the first board of Operation Clapboard during urban renewal, helping to preserve Newport's architectural heritage.

Their efforts didn't stop there. The Mathisons also focused on health, safety, and quality of life issues, including keeping public rights of way open.

The event will be held in person at the Wyndham Newport Hotel and streamed live on Zoom. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with free light snacks and a cash bar available.

You need to reserve a spot for both in-person and Zoom attendance. There's a $5 fee to attend in person, while Zoom is free. Register and see more events here .

For more info or help with reservations, you can contact Ann Arnold at 401-841-5493 or email