You are invited to an afternoon of dancing and music while you experience wedding traditions of the 18th century. Hosted by Noah’s New Americans, junior history club of Noah Webster House.

Learn what the wedding reception for Noah Webster and his bride Rebecca Greenleaf might have been like and about the customs, superstitions, and fun that were a part of colonial wedding customs. Dance Master Jim Gregory will be your instructor as you join in the colonial dancing (no experience required.) Live music provided by James and Willow Sirch of Fiddleheads.

In the year 1787, Rebecca Greenleaf from Boston (Dorchester) caught the eye of Noah Webster, Jr. from West Division, CT. She was visiting her sister’s family in Philadelphia where Noah was lecturing and debating alphabet/spelling reform with Dr. Benjamin Franklin. [In April, due to financial difficulties, Noah accepted a position as instructor of English at the Episcopal Academy.] He was smitten almost immediately by the dark-eyed beauty. After a typical 2 year courtship, Noah and Rebecca wed in October 26, 1789. The ceremony took place in her family’s parlor and was officiated by the Rev. Peter Thatcher of Brattle Street Church. George Washington visited this church for services the day before their wedding.

Cake and punch will be served.

Colonial costume are encouraged but not required.

Cost: $15 per person; appropriate for ages 10 yrs. and above. Tickets at https://noahwebster.yapsody.com/