BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Henry L. Ferguson Museum - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Henry L. Ferguson Museum REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250427T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250427T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180815 CREATED:20250205T115422Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250424T215133Z UID:34052-1745769600-1745773200@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:The Rumrunner Wrecks of Fishers Island DESCRIPTION:In this virtual illustrated talk\, Museum director Pierce Rafferty utilizes and expands selected portions of his 2019 talk on prohibition entitled “Scotch on the Rocks” with a focus on the five rumrunner wrecks on Fishers Island\, especially Steam Yacht Thelma Phoebe on Chocomount Beach\, April 1923. \nWHEN: Sunday\, April 27\, 2025 (Moved from April 20)\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: Virtual via zoom \nJoin Zoom WebinarPhone one-tap:\n+16465588656\,\,81701546488# US (New York)\n+16469313860\,\,81701546488# US \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\nWebinar ID: 817 0154 6488\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kc35uI0rZs URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/the-rumrunner-wrecks-of-fishers-island/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ThelmaPhoebe-ashore-LifePreserv_2342.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250518T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250518T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180815 CREATED:20250221T180929Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250221T195457Z UID:34111-1747584000-1747587600@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:American Seacoast Defenses and the Long Island Sound DESCRIPTION:Join us for a VIRTUAL illustrated talk by Mark Berhow\, author and chairman of the publications committee for Coast Defense Study Group\nWHEN: Sunday\, May 18\, 2025\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: Virtual via zoom \nFrom the establishment of the United States in 1790 through 1950 the federal government fortified its major deep water harbors to deter attack from foreign navies. Long Island Sound has been a prominent location for these defense programs because of its many natural harbors and its “back door” access to New York. Rapid developments in warship and artillery technology during this time led to an evolution of seacoast fortifications with increasing effective range as reflected in the Long Island defenses. The saga of these forts and the changes that led to their eventual closure will be covered in this presentation. \nMark Berhow is a retired research chemist who worked for the USDA Agricultural Research Service in Pasadena\, California and Peoria\, Illinois. He has had a long interest in American military history and the defenses of United States. He is actively involved with the Coast Defense Study Group as the chairman of its publications committee and is currently the editor in chief of the Coast Defense Journal and the CDSG Newsletter. He has written both books and articles on American seacoast and air defenses. \nJoin zoom webinarPhone one-tap:\n+16694449171\,\,89682052336# US\n+16699009128\,\,89682052336# US (San Jose) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US \nWebinar ID: 896 8205 2336\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbfGyh3G49 URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/american-seacoast-defenses-and-the-long-island-sound/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Firing-large-gun-Fort-Wright-21944.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250524T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250524T130000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250114T143253Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250407T205342Z UID:33933-1748084400-1748091600@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Right Place\, Right Plant - Native Plants and Practical Uses DESCRIPTION:Native plants are essential to repairing and sustaining our fragile ecosystem on Fishers Island. But what makes them unique\, and how can we use them effectively? Join us\, at the Museum for a discussion of native plants and practical gardening tips!\nWHEN: Saturday\, May 24\, 2025 \nTIME: 11 am – 12 pm (Talk)\, 12-1 pm (Reception) \nPLACE: In person at the Museum\, 2nd Floor and virtual via zoom \nBy understanding the impact of our actions on land\, we can make a significant difference. Non-native plants often require extra maintenance\, like fertilizer and pesticides\, which can harm our delicate ecosystem. Fishers Island’s sandy\, porous soil does not retain these chemicals once applied; instead\, they flow into our waters. Fertilizer runoff is a significant source of nitrogen pollution that damages marine habitats and creates algal blooms. The fertilizer and pesticides that do not run into the water damage soil quality and harm native insects. Planting native is an easy win for our entire ecosystem. \nAt this event\, we will hear from experienced peers and professionals to discover more about Fishers Island’s native landscape\, the role of invasive plants in the food chain\, and how we can use native plants within our landscaping projects. Dr. Adam Mitchell\, Terry McNamara\, Dianne Crary\, Diana Fiske\, and Melie Spofford will each give a lightning talk about native plants and happily answer your questions. \nAfter our speakers take you on a journey to learn about Fishers Island’s native plants\, we will hold a reception that will host various Fishers Island contractors\, lots of helpful handouts\, and a plant sale. \nDon’t miss out on this unique opportunity! Space for the in-person talk is limited\, so secure your spot today. \nRegisterJoin Zoom WebinarDownload Flyer URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/right-place-right-plant-native-plants-and-practical-uses/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FISM-Lawncare-Seagrass-benefits.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250629T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250629T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250303T205144Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250629T124604Z UID:34182-1751212800-1751216400@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Nibbling on the Wild Landscape of Fishers Island DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illustrated talk with Russ Cohen\, author of the book Wild Plants I Have Known…and Eaten\, to learn about at least two dozen of the tastiest wild plant species the Island has to offer.\nFishers Island is home to over 70 species of edible wild plants\, many of which are more nutritious and/or flavorful than their cultivated counterparts. These include native species\, like Fox Grape and Beach Pea; non-native weeds\, like Chicory and Burdock; and invasive species\, like Autumn Olive and Japanese Knotweed. \nThis presentation will include plant species everyone knows well\, like Daisies and Dandelions\, to species people may have never even heard of\, like Nannyberry and Meadow Beauty. Keys to the identification of each species will be provided\, along with info on edible portion(s)\, season(s) of availability and preparation methods\, as well as guidelines for safe\, ethical and environmentally-responsible foraging. \nWhen: Sunday\, June 29\, 2025\nTime: 4-5 pm\nPlace: At the Museum\, 2nd floor and virtual\, via zoom\nReception to follow – Russ will accompany his talk with handouts and samples of goodies made with wild foraged ingredients for people to sip and nibble on. \nJoin Zoom WebinarPhone one-tap:\n+16469313860\,\,88227499591# US\n+16465588656\,\,88227499591# US (New York) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\nWebinar ID: 882 2749 9591\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcLhrVPzMF \n(Please note also the related “Wild Edible Plant Excursion on Fishers Island” Nature Walk that Russ will lead the following day\, June 30\, 2025.) \nRuss Cohen\, naturalist and wild foods enthusiast\, grew up in Weston\, Mass.\, where he spent much of his free time in the woods\, thereby cultivating a strong spiritual connection to nature. Russ’ first formal exposure to edible wild plants occurred while a sophomore at Weston High School\, where he enrolled in an “Edible Botany” mini-course offered by the high school biology department. The course taught him about two dozen edible species that grew around the high school grounds\, and the class finished with a “big feed”: a communal meal prepared from these plants\, at the end of the course. Russ got turned on to the subject\, went to the local library and took out every book he could find on the topic\, taught himself over fifty more species\, and\, in his senior year of high school (1974)\, he taught the Edible Botany class he had taken as a sophomore. Russ added edible wild mushrooms to his teaching repertoire in 1989 after returning home from a trip to the Soviet Union\, where he caught the mushroom hunting bug from the Russians. \nRuss received his bachelor’s degree in land use planning from Vassar College in 1978\, and received a masters in Natural Resources and a law degree from The Ohio State University in 1982. Until retiring from state service\, Russ was employed by the Riverways Program (now part of the Division of Ecological Restoration) of the Mass. Department of Fish and Game since 1988\, and served as its Rivers Advocate from 1992 until June of 2015. Other past employers have included the Nature Conservancy\, the Land Trust Alliance\, The Hillside Trust\, a land trust in Cincinnati\, Ohio\, and the Massachusetts Audubon Society. \nSince his retirement in June 2015\, while continuing to offer walks and talks on foraging for wild edibles\, Russ is now playing the role of Johnny Appleseed for native edible species. He has set up a nursery (near his childhood home in Weston\, MA) where he is growing over 1\,000 plants\, representing more than a third of the more than 190 species native to Northeast ecoregions that are edible by people. Many of these plants were propagated from seed Russ gathered himself. Russ is then collaborating with land trusts\, municipalities\, state and federal agencies\, schools and colleges\, tribal groups\, organic farms and others\, to plant plants from his nursery on appropriate places on their properties. You can learn more about this endeavor in the article Russ Cohen’s Wild Edible Adventures\, by Cathy Walthers\, which ran in the Summer 2018 issue of Edible Boston Magazine; Meet the ‘Johnny Appleseed’ of Edible Native Plants\, by Barbara A. Schmitz\, which ran in the Spring 2019 issue of the Wild Ones Journal; a March 2020 video podcast interview with Kim Eierman of EcoBeneficial; or\, most recently\, the profile of Russ and his native edible plant propagation and planting that ran in the January 2024 edition of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society’s The Leaflet newsletter. URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/nibbling-on-the-wild-landscape-of-fishers-island/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Russ-Cohen-foraging-walk.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250713T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250713T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250301T190338Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250704T233817Z UID:34160-1752422400-1752426000@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Temple to the Wind: The Story of America's Greatest Naval Architect and His Masterpiece\, Reliance DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illustrated talk by author Christopher Pastore\, who will share the story of Reliance drawing from Nathanael G. Herreshoff’s sketches\, photos\, original models and plans\, as well as Herreshoff’s personal papers and letters.\nWHEN: Sunday\, July 13\, 2025\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: In person at the Museum\, second floor and virtual\, via zoom\nBook signing and reception to follow. \nJoin Zoom WebinarDesigned and built in 1903\, Reliance was a yacht like no other. A marvel of her time\, Reliance’s topsail yard towered nearly 190 feet above the water\, with sails stretching 202 feet from the bowsprit to the boom’s end. Many said Reliance\, carrying more sail than any single-masted boat before\, was simply too dangerous to sail\, but the stakes were awesome. By the turn of the century racing for the America’s Cup had become more than a gentleman’s game. In 1903 it was an all-or-nothing contest—fraught with political tension—between two great rivals\, Britain and America. Anticipating the acrimonious battles over the America’s Cup today\, the story of Reliance explores the ways big yachts and even bigger personalities have defined the contest since its inception. \nPHOTO CREDIT: Reliance Crossing Finish Line\, photo work of Detroit Publishing Co.\, collection at the Library of Congress\, Public domain\, via Wikimedia Commons. \nAbout the author \nChristopher Pastore is Associate Professor of History at the University at Albany\, State University of New York\, where he teaches courses in environmental history\, early America\, and the Atlantic world. He holds a Ph.D. in American History and M.S. in college teaching from the University of New Hampshire\, an M.F.A. in nonfiction Creative Writing from New School University\, and a B.A. in Biology from Bowdoin College. \nA Rhode Island native\, Pastore grew up racing sailboats on Narragansett Bay just down the road from the Herreshoff Marine Museum and America’s Cup Hall of Fame. His journalistic work has appeared in the New York Times\, Boat International\, Cruising World\, Newport Life\, Offshore\, Restoration Quarterly\, Real Simple\, and Sailing World\, where he worked as Associate Editor. He also served as Editor of American Sailor and Junior Sailor\, the official publications of U.S. Sailing\, the sport’s national governing body. He is the author of Temple to the Wind: The Story of America’s Greatest Naval Architect and His Masterpiece\, Reliance (Lyons Press\, 2005)\, early selections from which earned the 2003 National Arts Club Annual Award for Nonfiction\, and Between Land and Sea: The Atlantic Coast and the Transformation of New England (Harvard University Press\, 2014)\, which earned a spot on the shortlist for the Turku Book Prize\, awarded for best book by the European Society for Environmental History. \nReliance passing the Brenton Reef light ship at high speed\, 1903. Photograph by Nathaniel Livermore Stebbins\, Public domain\, via Wikimedia Commons. \nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/85900106303 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16469313860\,\,85900106303# US\n+16465588656\,\,85900106303# US (New York) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\nWebinar ID: 859 0010 6303\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdwpwwbl8O URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/temple-to-the-wind-the-story-of-americas-greatest-naval-architect-and-his-masterpiece-reliance/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Reliance_CrossingFinishLine-DPC-LoC.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250720T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250720T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250304T171003Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250717T211540Z UID:34204-1753027200-1753030800@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Homegrown National Park DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illustrated talk by Doug Tallamy\, founder of Homegrown National Park whose goal is to create a national movement to restore 20 million acres with natives\, an area representing ½ of what is now in lawn\, as well as millions more acres in agriculture and woodlots.\nWHEN: Sunday\, July 20\, 2025\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: In-person at the F.I. Theater and virtual via zoom\nReception to follow. \nJoin Zoom WebinarOur parks\, preserves\, and remaining wildlands – no matter how grand in scale – are too small and separated from one another to sustain the native trees\, plants\, insects\, and animals on which our ecosystems depend. We can fix this problem by practicing conservation outside of wildlands\, where we live\, work\, shop\, farm\, and ranch. Thus\, the concept for Homegrown National Park: a national challenge to create diverse ecosystems in our yards\, communities\, farms\, and surrounding lands by reducing lawn\, planting native\, and removing invasives. \nWe are at a critical point where we are losing so many native plant and animal species that our life support systems are in jeopardy. However\, if many people make small changes\, we can restore healthy ecological networks and weather the changes ahead. \nDoug Tallamy is the T. A. Baker Professor of Agriculture in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware\, where he has authored 115 research publications and has taught insect related courses for 45 years. Chief among his research goals is to better understand the many ways insects interact with plants and how such interactions determine the diversity of animal communities. His books include Bringing Nature Home\, The Living Landscape\, co-authored with Rick Darke\, Nature’s Best Hope\, a New York Times Best Seller\, The Nature of Oaks\, winner of the American Horticultural Society’s 2022 book award\, and his latest How Can I Help. In 2021 he cofounded Homegrown National Park with Michelle Alfandari. His awards include recognition from The Garden Writer’s Association\, Audubon\, The National Wildlife Federation\, Allegheny College\, Ecoforesters\, The Garden Club of America\, The Herb Society\, and The American Horticultural Association. \nThis event is co-hosted with Fishers Island Conservancy.\nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/88410117213 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16469313860\,\,88410117213# US\n+16465588656\,\,88410117213# US (New York) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\nWebinar ID: 884 1011 7213\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcdabsjFqg URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/homegrown-national-park/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture,Volunteer ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/alfandari-homegrown-national-park-dt.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250727T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250727T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250325T203214Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250726T190655Z UID:34457-1753632000-1753635600@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Healthy Landscape Ecosystems  DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illustrated talk by Jim Sirch\, naturalist and President of the Connecticut Horticultural Society\, to learn about relationships in nature\, and how a healthy landscape ecosystem functions well for people and wildlife.\nWHEN: Sunday\, July 27\, 2025\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: In person at the Museum and virtual via zoom \nJoin Zoom WebinarNature\, like life\, is about relationships. When you observe a tree in your landscape\, what do you see? Do you see leaves\, limbs and bark? Or\, do you see\, if only in your mind’s eye\, the many species that it supports? – the caterpillars that feed on its leaves\, the birds that feed those caterpillars to their young\, the woodpeckers that drill into its bark for insects or the mammals that make their nests in its branches. \nWe need to look closely to understand and appreciate how species interact and depend upon one another. For instance\, we’ve all observed bees. But did you know that there are more than 400 bee species in New York State alone? They range from large bumblebees to tiny little native bees\, and many specialize on specific plants for survival. The same is true of many other kinds of wildlife\, such as butterflies\, moths\, and birds. Many animals have evolved over millennia to specialize on specific native plants. John Muir wrote: “When we try to pick out anything by itself\, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe.” When we begin to appreciate the interconnectedness of all things in nature\, we see that everything is interdependent and affects everything else. \nIn an age in which humans are rapidly unraveling the ecosystem services of the planet\, It’s important to understand how we can make a difference in our own landscapes. It matters what trees you plant\, what shrubs you install\, or how you site a water feature. All these things contribute to having a healthy landscape ecosystem. \nJim Sirch is a trained Naturalist and President of the Connecticut Horticultural Society. He recently retired from the Yale Peabody Museum. Jim is a UConn Master Gardener and board member of his local land trust and the Mountain Laurel chapter of Wild Ones. As a naturalist\, he brings a deep understanding of geology\, plants and wildlife and how they interact within a particular ecosystem. Jim is passionate about helping others decrease their lawn and re-wild their yard. He founded the Peabody-Beardsley-Maritime chapter of FrogWatch\, a national community science program to identify and track frog populations and co-founded a native plant seed library at his local public library. Jim holds a B.S in Forestry from West Virginia University\, a B.S. from Miami University in Science Education; and an M.S. in Environmental Studies Administration from Antioch University. He is honored to be a Sigmund Abeles Award recipient from the Connecticut Science Teachers and Supervisors Association for outstanding science teaching and professional development. Jim also authors a nature blog called Beyond Your Back Door at www.beyondyourbackdoor.com. \nHealthy Landscape Ecosystems ResourcesWarbler feeding chicks. Photo by Steve Maslowski USFWS \nJoin Zoom from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/89959486559 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16469313860\,\,89959486559# US\n+16465588656\,\,89959486559# US (New York) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\nWebinar ID: 899 5948 6559\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kj713bflu URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/healthy-landscape-ecosystems/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture,Volunteer ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Jim-Sirch_10-15-2020.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250803T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250803T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250307T183744Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250731T232605Z UID:34274-1754236800-1754240400@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Understanding the Global-to-Regional Climate Driven by Atmospheric CO2 DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illustrated talk by John P. Jasper Ph.D.\, Molecular Isotope Technologies\, Niantic\, Conn.\, that spans the last 500 million years for perspective\, with a focus into the last century for preliminarily considering the health of the southeastern Connecticut coastal environments.\nWHEN: Sunday\, August 3\, 2025\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: In person at the Museum and virtual via zoom \nJoin Zoom WebinarWith geochemical experience in natural sciences spanning the last forty-five years\, Dr. John Jasper will present a summary natural history of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2\, the primary driving force of global climate) and a prospectus of these levels based on the major contributions to the contemporary atmospheric CO2 budget (see also https://rdcu.be/eaQu7). With the general perception that eelgrass abundance is inversely proportional to water temperature\, these relatively recent records focus interest and discussion into the history and fate of eelgrass in this region. \nDr. Jasper (Ph.D.\, 1988\, M.I.T./Woods Hole Oceanographic Inst.) founded in 1999 and is the Chief Scientific Officer of Molecular Isotope Technologies ℠ LLC (MIT LLC)\, a company that specializes in pharmaceutical product and process (“Nature’s Fingerprint®” and “Isotopic Pedigree®”) authentication. By training\, he is an analytical organic and stable isotope chemist who uses bulk and compound-specific approaches to determine the sources of organic matter via their natural-isotopic “fingerprints\,” particularly in pharmaceutical materials. \nJohn P. Jasper Ph.D.\, aboard WHOI’s R/V Atlantis overlooking the gyrocompass at the Fiftieth MIT/WHOI Reunion. \nPHOTO CREDIT: Long eelgrass blades-leaves floating on the surface of the water at low tide\, by Emily Bodell \nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android: \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/81662716015

 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16469313860\,\,81662716015# US\n+16465588656\,\,81662716015# US (New York) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\nWebinar ID: 816 6271 6015\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbHAptPfdw URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/understanding-the-global-to-regional-climate-driven-by-atmospheric-co2/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/GOPR0068_Eelgrass-low-tide-EmilyBodell_28069.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250807T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250807T190000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250717T183407Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250806T180934Z UID:35527-1754586000-1754593200@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Returns to Fishers Island! DESCRIPTION:The Henry L. Ferguson Museum and Elizabeth and Richard Miller invite you for an update on local and global ocean climate issues by WHOI President and Director\, Peter de Menocal and a presentation by Robert L. James Scientist Chair\, Camrin Braun on Apex Ocean Predators. \nWHEN: Thursday\, August 7\, 2025\nTIME: Reception 5-6 p.m.\, Presentations 6-7 p.m.\nPLACE: In-person at the F.I. Theater \nPlease note\, this is an update to the presentation given in August of 2024 on “Waves of Change: Understanding both local and global ocean climate issues and unexpected solutions”. \nJoin Zoom WebinarJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/88246928539 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16469313860\,\,88246928539# US\n+16465588656\,\,88246928539# US (New York) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\nWebinar ID: 882 4692 8539\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdO81tvOPg URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/woods-hole-oceanographic-institution-returns-to-fishers-island/ LOCATION:Fishers Island Theater CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/iSt-1348958685-waves.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250810T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250810T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250317T182219Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250807T182932Z UID:34365-1754841600-1754845200@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:A Brief History of Land Use and Conservation on Fishers Island DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illustrated talk by Museum director Pierce Rafferty\, who will survey the history of land use on Fishers Island since first European settlement before turning his focus to land conservation efforts on our island from the mid-1960s to date.\nThis talk will encompass both the origins and evolution of the Museum’s Land Trust and its trail network\, and the FI Conservancy’s project to convert the former Fort Wright Parade Ground into a meadow – a model for restoration and successful invasive species management in an eastern grassland. \nWHEN: Sunday\, August 10\, 2025\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: In person at the Museum\, 2nd floor\, and virtual via zoom\nReception to follow. \nJoin Zoom Webinar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Large color aerial photograph on display in the Museum lobby on which properties now preserved via the Land Trust are marked. Total acreage protected from development under Land Trust auspices\, either directly or through conservation easements\, now exceeds 377 acres\, more than 13% of the Island’s land mass when you exclude the water surface area.\n \n \n \n \n \n WOODLAND TRAILS\, Fishers Island – New York. Circa 1966. This early East End trail network was created by Matty Matthiessen and friends.\n \n \n \n \n \n Queen Anne’s Lace on the Parade Grounds\, August 2\, 2018. Photograph by Jane T. Ahrens\n \n \n\nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/86545293608 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16465588656\,\,86545293608# US (New York)\n+16469313860\,\,86545293608# US \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\nWebinar ID: 865 4529 3608\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbUfK8kUoJ URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/a-brief-history-of-land-use-and-conservation-on-fishers-island/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/LandTrustPropMap_7-21-2023_81496.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250812T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250812T173000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250716T214614Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250728T153523Z UID:35515-1755019800-1755019800@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Rewild Your Yard DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illustrated talk by naturalist Murray Fisher to learn about his effort to “rewild” half of his yard in Westchester County and the transformation experience it has been for him and his family. \nWHEN: Tuesday\, August 12\, 2025\nTIME: 5:30 pm\nPLACE: In person at the FI Library \nAt 60 million acres\, the American lawn is the largest and most intensely managed “crop”. Murray’s goal is to help others see the immense opportunity these lawns provide for not only creating habitat for wildlife and sequestering carbon but for fostering deep connections to the natural world. \nMurray is the co-founder of the New York Harbor School and the Billion Oyster Project\, a Trustee of the H.L. Ferguson Museum\, and a partner in Plan it Wild. \nThe program is co-hosted by the Fishers Island Library. URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/rewild-your-yard/ LOCATION:Fishers Island Library CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/iSt877744744-Rewild-MurrayFisher.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250817T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250817T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250304T190916Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250816T141215Z UID:34210-1755446400-1755450000@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Amphibians of Fishers Island and the Surrounding Region DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illustrated talk by Kim Hargrave\, Executive Director\, Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center as we explore the diverse salamander and frog species of our area.\nDelve into the amazing life cycles of these creatures\, from their aquatic beginnings to their terrestrial or semi-aquatic adult forms. Learn how to identify common species and have a chance to see live amphibians up close. We will also discuss the challenges amphibians face\, including habitat loss\, climate change and pollution. You will gain a deeper appreciation for these often-overlooked creatures and their crucial role as an indicator species in the ecosystem. \nWHEN: Sunday\, August 17\, 2025\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: In person at the Museum\, second floor and virtual\, via zoom \n\nJoin Zoom WebinarKim Hargrave\, a native of Ledyard\, CT\, and a graduate of UMass Amherst in Natural Resources joined the Nature Center in 1998 as an educator and has since excelled as Education Director. Kim has played a key role in designing and implementing educational programs that inspire environmental stewardship and engagement. Earlier this year\, she assumed the role of interim Executive Director. \nGreen Frog (Lithobates clamitans) Photo by bedfordnaturalist (Murray Fisher) \nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/88272811393 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16469313860\,\,88272811393# US\n+16465588656\,\,88272811393# US (New York) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\nWebinar ID: 882 7281 1393\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keu0QXuY6i URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/amphibians-of-fishers-island-and-the-surrounding-region/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/spottedsally_matthewsmith_CreativeCommons.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250822T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250822T190000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250723T164045Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250723T164045Z UID:35512-1755883800-1755889200@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Dialogues: Harriet Brickman & Jenny Dixon DESCRIPTION:Artist Harriet Brickman sits down with Jenny Dixon\, former Director of the Noguchi Museum\, to revisit Passages: Beach Forms\, a site-specific public artwork Brickman created on South Beach\, Fishers Island\, in 1980. Their conversation will explore the work’s origins\, its connection to place\, and its resonance more than four decades later. \nWHEN: Friday\, August 22\, 2025\nTIME: 5:30 p.m. Reception | 6:00 p.m. Conversation\nPLACE: In-person at the Museum\, 2nd floor \nPlease note\, the Special Exhibition “Passages: A Public Sculpture Over Time\, 1980–2025” currently on display at the 2nd Floor Side Gallery\, chronicles the changes over time to this 1980 South Beach environmental art sculpture by artist Harriet Brickman. \nThis event is co-sponsored with Lighthouse Works URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/dialogues-harriet-brickman-jenny-dixon/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture,Reception ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Harriet-Brickman_0230.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250824T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250824T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250307T222227Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250818T160708Z UID:34286-1756051200-1756054800@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Birds at Rest DESCRIPTION:Everybody enjoys watching birds during the daytime\, but what do they do at night\, when they seem to disappear? Join us for an illustrated talk by noted ornithologist and author\, Roger Pasquier\, to learn about how birds have evolved unique sleep habits to match their intensely energetic lifestyle.\nWHEN: Sunday\, August 24\, 2025\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: In person at the Museum and virtual via zoom\nReception and book signing to follow. Signed copies of Roger’s book\, “Birds at Rest: The Behavior and Ecology of Avian Sleep”\, will be available for purchase. \nJoin Zoom WebinarBirds need sleep as much as we do\, but instead of long stretches of obliviousness\, they sleep in short bouts of several seconds or a few minutes\, waking up to look around for danger\, and then going back to sleep.  To increase their vigilance\, birds can sleep shutting off only half their brain and one eye at a time\, leaving them able to respond instantly to any alarm.  The social habits of sleeping birds are also distinctive.  Most are solitary\, some sleep in pairs or families\, while others gain advantages of warmth\, safety\, and even social needs like finding a mate\, by joining in flocks\, not to mention guidance on where to get breakfast the next day. \nRoger will discuss the evolution and benefits of sleep\, focusing on how birds find shelter\, keep warm\, and stay alert\, and recent discoveries that some birds can spend weeks and months in the air\, sleeping while in flight.  Human impacts like artificial light and noise as well as climate change\, however\, are changing how and where birds can get a good night’s rest. \nRoger Pasquier\, a lifelong birder\, is an associate in the Department of Ornithology at the American Museum of Natural History.  He is a regular visitor to Fishers Island\, where he has added a few species to the list of birds found here.  He has spoken at the Museum on two of his previous books\, Painting Central Park and Birds in Winter: Surviving the Most Challenging Season.  Roger’s career has been in ornithology and in conservation\, at BirdLife International\, World Wildlife Fund-US\, Environmental Defense Fund\, and National Audubon Society.  He is the author of several other books on art history and on birds.  Roger is a native New Yorker.  His favorite birding places include Central Park and the Peruvian rainforest. \nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/82807940835 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16469313860\,\,82807940835# US\n+16465588656\,\,82807940835# US (New York) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\nWebinar ID: 828 0794 0835\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcRw6guBuz URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/birds-at-rest/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Birds-at-Rest-R-Pasquier.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250831T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250831T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250317T140926Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T112627Z UID:34355-1756656000-1756659600@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Fort H.G. Wright and the Defense of the Race DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illustrated talk on the history of Fort H.G. Wright by Terrance McGovern\, author of eight books on fortifications and long-time officer of the Coast Defense Study Group.\nWHEN: Sunday\, August 31\, 2025.\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: Virtual Live Stream at the Museum\, 2nd Floor and via zoom.\nReception to follow. \nDue to unforeseen circumstances\, the upcoming illustrated talk on the history of Fort H.G. Wright by Terrance McGovern will now be VIRTUAL-ONLY. For those who still wish to connect with the community\, we’re hosting a watch party at the Museum! We encourage you to join us for the live stream playing on the big screen\, followed by a live\, virtual Q&A session with the speaker\, and a reception to follow. \nFor those who wish to watch from home\, please join the live stream: \nJoin Zoom WebinarTerry will trace the role of the fort in the defense of the eastern entrance of Long Island Sound from its founding in 1900 to its deactivation in 1949\, followed by the sale and transfer of properties in 1958. The presentation will explore how the fort was first developed as part of a chain of forts defending the Race and remained a very active post through two world wars. Components of the fort to be examined include its 12 gun emplacements\, controlled mine defenses\, small arms ranges\, various buildings\, and its small airfield. \nTerrance McGovern has authored eight books and numerous articles on fortifications\, four of those books being for Ospreys Fortress Series (American Defenses of Corregidor and Manila Bay 1898 1945; Defenses of Pearl Harbor and Oahu 1907 50; American Coastal Defenses 1885 1950; Defenses of Bermuda 1612-1995). He has also published 12 books on coast defense and fortifications through Redoubt Press or CDSG Press. Terry was Chairman of the US-based Coast Defense Study Group and continues to be a long-time officer. He has also been the editor of the Fortress Study Group annual journal\, FORT. He is a director of the International Fortress Council\, the Council on America s Military Past\, Fort Miles Historical Association\, and International Naval Research Organization. He is also an appointed Trustee for the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Fort Monroe Authority Board. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/81874601446 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16465588656\,\,81874601446# US (New York)\n+16469313860\,\,81874601446# US \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\nWebinar ID: 818 7460 1446\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcN0GvegwM URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/fort-h-g-wright-and-the-defense-of-the-race/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/10inch-gun-in-action-HGWright_015_TMcGovern.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250914T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250914T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250320T230040Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250913T183511Z UID:34389-1757865600-1757869200@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Insights into the Hidden Lives of Terns and Gulls DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illustrated talk by Dr. Peter Paton\, Professor\, Department of Natural Resources Science\, University of Rhode Island\, who will present on current research activities on neighboring Great Gull Island\, the breeding and nesting home to 11\,000 pairs of Common Terns and 2\,200 pairs of endangered Roseate Terns.\nWHEN: Sunday\, September 14\, 2025\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: In person at the Museum and virtual via zoom \nJoin Zoom WebinarUsing recent advances in tracking technology\, scientists and volunteers are monitoring not only annual migration from Great Gull to wintering haunts in Argentina and Brazil\, but also daily foraging trips to Montauk and Napatree\, a journey of 16+ miles\, to capture fish for their nesting chicks. Recent discoveries of migratory patterns of Great Black-backed Gulls nesting on South Dumpling and Block Island will also be revealed. This talk will remind us all what amazing feathered neighbors we have! \nPhotos courtesy of Peter Paton \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Roseate Tern with antenna at base of tail\n \n \n \n \n \n Roseate tern with sandlance\n \n \n \n \n \n Roseate Tern feeding chick\n \n \n\nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/85835294659 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16469313860\,\,85835294659# US\n+16465588656\,\,85835294659# US (New York) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\nWebinar ID: 858 3529 4659\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcaiGxkEyg URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/insights-into-the-hidden-lives-of-terns-and-gulls/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Common-Tern-wchicks-on-Great-Gull.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250928T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250928T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180816 CREATED:20250320T220859Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T125031Z UID:34379-1759075200-1759078800@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Taking Manhattan DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illustrated talk with renowned historian and author of The Island at the Center of the World\, Russell Shorto\, who will introduce us to “Taking Manhattan” his new riveting narrative that chronicles the birth of New York City in 1664 after England decided to invade the Dutch-controlled city of New Amsterdam on Manhattan Island.\nBristling with vibrant characters\, Taking Manhattan reveals the founding of New York to be an invention\, the result of creative negotiations between Richard Nicholls\, the military officer who led the threatening English flotilla\, and Peter Stuyvesant\, New Netherland’s canny director general. The New York that emerged from their peaceful talks blended the multiethnic\, capitalistic society of New Amsterdam with the power of the rising English empire. \nWHEN: Sunday\, September 28\, 2025\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: In person at the Museum and virtual via zoom\nReception and book signing to follow \nJoin Zoom WebinarThe birth of what might be termed the first modern city is also a story of the brutal dispossession of Native Americans and of the roots of American slavery. The book draws from newly translated materials and illuminates neglected histories—of religious refugees\, Indigenous tribes\, and free and enslaved Africans. Taking Manhattan tells the riveting story of the birth of New York City as a center of capitalism and pluralism\, a foundation from which America would rise. It also shows how the paradox of New York’s origins—boundless opportunity coupled with subjugation and displacement—reflects America’s promise and failure to this day. Russell Shorto\, whose work has been described as “astonishing” (New York Times) and “literary alchemy” (Chicago Tribune)\, has once again mined archival sources to offer a vibrant tale and a fresh and trenchant argument about American beginnings. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/82918708887 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16469313860\,\,82918708887# US\n+16465588656\,\,82918708887# US (New York) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 669 444 9171 US\nWebinar ID: 829 1870 8887\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kfhWZo95Z URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/taking-manhattan/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/TakingManhattan-RussellShorto-cover-art.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260201T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260201T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260120T185917Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260131T212943Z UID:37666-1769961600-1769965200@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:A Brief History of Land Use and Conservation on Fishers Island (Re-broadcast) DESCRIPTION:HLFM Director Pierce Rafferty will host a virtual-only re-broadcast of his recorded illustrated talk “A Brief History of Land Use and Conservation on Fishers Island” in which he surveyed the history of land use on Fishers Island since first European settlement before turning his focus to land conservation efforts on our island from the mid-1960s to date.\nThis virtual talk encompasses both the origins and evolution of the Museum’s Land Trust and its trail network\, and the FI Conservancy’s project to convert the former Fort Wright Parade Ground into a meadow – a model for restoration and successful invasive species management in an eastern grassland. \nWHEN: Sunday\, February 1\, 2026\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: VIRTUAL via zoom \nJoin Zoom WebinarPLEASE NOTE: This recorded talk was first presented by Pierce at the Museum on August 10\, 2025 – a day celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the Museum’s Land Trust. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Large color aerial photograph on display in the Museum lobby on which properties now preserved via the Land Trust are marked. Total acreage protected from development under Land Trust auspices\, either directly or through conservation easements\, now exceeds 377 acres\, more than 13% of the Island’s land mass when you exclude the water surface area.\n \n \n \n \n \n WOODLAND TRAILS\, Fishers Island – New York. Circa 1966. This early East End trail network was created by Matty Matthiessen and friends.\n \n \n \n \n \n Queen Anne’s Lace on the Parade Grounds\, August 2\, 2018. Photograph by Jane T. Ahrens\n \n \n\nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/87061257623 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16469313860\,\,87061257623# US\n+16465588656\,\,87061257623# US (New York) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\nWebinar ID: 870 6125 7623\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcKFAMsW1Q URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/a-brief-history-of-land-use-and-conservation-on-fishers-island-re-broadcast/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/LandTrustPropMap_7-21-2023_81496.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260227T124500 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260227T140000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260211T223253Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T194038Z UID:37910-1772196300-1772200800@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Lunch and Learn: Osprey Nation DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Henry L. Ferguson Museum for lunch and a remote presentation on Osprey populations from the Connecticut Audubon Society’s Milan “Miley” Bull. Milan will describe how Osprey Nation volunteers “adopt” nearby nests and collect data like arrival dates\, nesting success\, and departure dates\, and what that data tells us about Connecticut Osprey. \nWhen: Friday\, February 27\, 2026 (NEW DATE!)\nTime: Lunch at 12:45 pm\, Lecture at 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm\nPlace: At the Museum\, 2nd floor and virtual\, via zoom \nLunch will be provided at this free event. RSVP to Jessica NeJame at jnejame@fergusonmuseum.org. \nJoin Zoom WebinarMilan Bull is the Senior Director of Science and Conservation for the Connecticut Audubon Society. A long-time expert with over 60 years of birding experience\, he leads EcoTravel expeditions and directs conservation\, habitat improvement\, and research projects. Milan holds a B.S. in wildlife management from the University of Connecticut and an M.S. in biology from the University of Bridgeport. He is also a contributor to the society’s “Bird Finder” guide. \nOsprey with fish photograph by Todd McCormack \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/86292490300?pwd=9RxK0VeXX0P1svUruq9hlvn6BuiW6V.1 \nMeeting ID: 862 9249 0300\nPasscode: 678939 \n— \nOne tap mobile\n+16465588656\,\,86292490300# US (New York)\n+16469313860\,\,86292490300# US \nJoin instructions\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/meetings/86292490300/invitations?signature=g444n3E_hYmslCY8CJzg48po33HOEAav-KCdsaaZXAY URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/lunch-and-learn-osprey-nation/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/28198_osprey_with_fish_Todd_McCormack.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260322T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260322T160000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260306T202551Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T111102Z UID:38085-1774191600-1774195200@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:A Most Curious Shorebird: Secrets of the American Woodcock Revealed DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Museum for an illustrated talk by Scott R. McWilliams\, professor at the University of Rhode Island. The American Woodcock is a common (but declining) inhabitant of New England though this shorebird has abandoned the shores for the forests. Yet few of us have seen or heard this secretive bird\, and even fewer know about the woodcocks’ way of life and how our land use over time has affected their populations. The secrets of this secretive shorebird will be revealed including its migration patterns\, its unique mating system\, its habitat needs\, and how we can manage lands for their benefit. \nWhen: Sunday\, March 22\, 2026\nTime: 3-4 pm\nPlace: At the Museum\, 2nd floor and virtual\, via zoom \nScott McWilliams with Peregrine falcon \nPrior to coming to URI\, Scott McWilliams was a Postdoctoral fellow at the University of Wisconsin (Madison). Scott earned his PhD from University of California at Davis where he studied the physiological ecology of arctic-nesting geese\, and an MSc from Iowa State University where he studied the behavioral ecology of a threatened species of salamander. Scott earned a BA in Biology from Hiram College (Ohio). His research group primarily focuses on the nutrition\, physiology\, and ecology of wild vertebrates\, with an emphasis on migratory birds of conservation interest. Current research topics include the physiology and ecology of songbirds during migration; habitat use\, diet\, and nutrition of arctic-nesting geese\, sea ducks\, and migratory songbirds; forest management to support healthy bird populations; exercise physiology of long-distance migratory songbirds; effects of climate change on migratory birds; how offshore wind farms affect migratory birds. \n\nAmerican Woodcock photo by David Small\, USFWS \n\nJoin Zoom Webinar\n\nMeeting ID: 880 5313 5989\nPasscode: 485518 \n— \nOne tap mobile\n+16469313860\,\,88053135989# US\n+16465588656\,\,88053135989# US (New York) \nJoin instructions\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/meetings/88053135989/invitations?signature=fG47br7WKIWlmzI3qoNyHahdKJSnIgNL2GouwwoVVns URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/a-most-curious-shorebird-secrets-of-the-american-woodcock-revealed/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/American-Woodcock_David-Small_USFWS.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260412T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260412T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260316T215158Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T111230Z UID:38158-1776009600-1776013200@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Firefly: A Solar Electric Boat DESCRIPTION:Join us for a VIRTUAL ONLY illustrated talk by Don Baugh\, President and Founder of Upstream Alliance\, and Ronnie Vesnaver\, Director of Regional Programs and Partnerships\, to learn about the innovative solar-electric vessel\, Firefly. It will be the first U.S. Coast Guard-approved passenger vessel powered by lithium iron phosphate batteries — marking a major step forward for carbon-neutral transportation on the water. Get the inside scoop on the construction of Firefly and the impactful programs it will provide.\nWHEN: Sunday\, April 12\, 2026\nTIME: 4-5 p.m.\nPLACE: Virtual via zoom \nJoin Zoom WebinarFirefly is a 49-foot\, fully electric\, aluminum catamaran being custom built by Lyman-Morse boatbuilding in Maine. Designed to be quiet\, smooth\, and totally emissions-free – to get people out on the water in a clean and sustainable way. With solar panels on the roof and a wide\, stable platform\, it’s ideal for hands-on learning\, group trips\, and connecting with nature — while showcasing what the future of boating can look like. Whether you care about innovation in marine technology or empowering communities through education\, Firefly is more than just a boat. It’s a flagship vessel for the Mid-Atlantic — a bold example of what’s possible when carbon-neutral design meets real-world impact. From students testing water quality to scientists studying river health\, Firefly will help bring a new generation of stories to life—on the water. \nDon Baugh is a national leader in environmental education programs and policies. Don’s hallmark is connecting students\, educators and leaders to nature through life-changing field experiences. His career includes 38 years directing education programs at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation\, founding the No Child Left Inside Coalition\, and leading the consulting firm Environmental Leadership Strategies. The impacts of Don’s work are far-reaching. He directed 19 education centers\, providing field investigation experiences to over 1\,000\,000 students. The No Child Left Inside coalition Don founded brought together 2\,250 environmental groups\, reaching 50\,000\,000 constituents. The partnership begot the first ever statewide high school graduation requirement for environmental literacy. It produced historic funding advances for outdoor environmental education. \nRonnie Vesnaver is passionate about the history and environment of waterways. That passion has steered her toward a career in education and conservation. After graduating from Colby College\, Ronnie taught at the Pennington School in New Jersey. While there\, she earned a masters in Environmental History at Rutgers University focusing her research on coastal and ocean history. Ronnie spent summers working on the schooner Mystic Whaler and is an alum of the Williams-Mystic maritime studies program. In 2020\, she moved to the Eastern Shore of Maryland to join the Gunston School where she taught humanities for\, and later directed\, the Chesapeake Watershed Semester\, a place-based experiential semester program. Ronnie has enjoyed that her career has allowed her to share the history and environments she loves with others. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/84782353371 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16699009128\,\,84782353371# US (San Jose)\n+16694449171\,\,84782353371# US \nJoin via audio:\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 646 931 3860 US\nWebinar ID: 847 8235 3371\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kE72H5cTi URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/firefly-a-solar-electric-boat/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FireFly_full-boat-above.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260419T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260419T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260209T181622Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T111610Z UID:37859-1776614400-1776618000@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Nibbling on Native Plants in Your Back Yard and Beyond DESCRIPTION:Did you know that Juneberries (Amelanchier spp.)\, are equally edible by animals (songbirds\, e.g.) and people alike? The taste of the ripe fruit is like a cross between cherries and almonds (they’re all related species in the Rose family).\nThere’s an increasing interest among homeowners on island to utilize more native species in their landscaping\, thanks to books like Doug Tallamy’s book Bringing Nature Home\, which extol the virtues of native plants for attracting and sustaining beneficial insects. The fact that many of our native species are edible by people too provides an additional incentive to plant them in our yards beyond the ecological rationale. \nJoin us for a VIRTUAL ONLY illustrated talk with Russ Cohen\, author of the book Wild Plants I Have Known…and Eaten\, to learn about at least two dozen species of native edible wild plants suitable for adding to your landscape\, or nibbling on as you encounter them in other locales. Keys to the identification of each species will be provided\, along with edible portions\, seasons of availability and preparation methods\, as well as guidelines for safe and environmentally responsible foraging. Russ will also include a few details regarding some native edible plants he has grown successfully from seed\, and the partnerships he has made with conservation groups and others to add edible native plants to their landscapes. \nWhen: Sunday\, April 19\, 2026\nTime: 4-5 pm\nPlace: Virtual\, via zoom \n\nJoin Zoom Webinar\n\nAbout Russ \nUntil his retirement in June of 2015\, Russ Cohen’s “day job” was serving as the Rivers Advocate for the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game’s Division of Ecological Restoration\, where one of his areas of expertise was in riparian vegetation. Now Russ has more time to pursue his passionate avocation\, which is connecting to nature via his taste buds\, and assisting others in doing the same. Russ is playing the role of “Johnny Appleseed” for edible native species. He has set up a small nursery (in Weston + Lincoln\, MA) where he grows/keeps hundreds of plants he propagates from seed (some of which he collected himself)\, as well as obtains from other sources\, such as the Native Plant Trust. Over the past decade\, Russ has collaborated on over two dozen such projects – partnering with land trusts\, cities and towns\, schools and colleges\, state and federal agencies\, organic farms\, tribal groups\, and others to plant plants from his nursery in appropriate places on their properties (including Fishers Island). \n\nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/83074165598 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16694449171\,\,83074165598# US\n+16699009128\,\,83074165598# US (San Jose) \nJoin via audio:\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\nWebinar ID: 830 7416 5598\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kd4btyIpFv URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/nibbling-on-native-plants-in-your-back-yard-and-beyond/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Russ-Cohen_P1070120.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260426T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260426T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260316T131048Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T112004Z UID:38146-1777219200-1777222800@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Atlantic Coast Piping Plovers: 40 Years on the Road to Recovery DESCRIPTION:Join us for a VIRTUAL ONLY illustrated talk by wildlife biologist\, Maureen Durkin\, who will highlight the fascinating ecology and behavior of the Piping Plover – one of our most notable local shorebird species. Hear all about this charismatic little bird\, their delicate coastal habitat\, and how you can help share our beaches.\nWhen: Sunday\, April 26\, 2026\nTime: 4-5 pm\nPlace: Virtual\, via zoom \nJoin Zoom WebinarPiping plovers have been the focus of intensive conservation efforts since their listing under the Endangered Species Act in 1986. This is an opportunity to learn about the strides made toward recovery in the last four decades\, current management strategies\, and the challenges still facing the piping plover across its range. \nMaureen Durkin with juvenile oystercatcher \nMaureen Durkin is a Rhode Island-based Wildlife Biologist specializing in coastal birds and management of threatened and endangered species. She received her undergraduate degree from Connecticut College\, where she had some of her formative academic experiences in ecology in and around Long Island Sound. Maureen became fascinated by shorebirds while working field technician jobs around the Gulf of Mexico after college. She went on to receive her M.S. from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse\, NY\, conducting her research on the impacts of recreational disturbance to snowy plovers in the Florida Panhandle. She continued working in Florida for several more years through SUNY-ESF\, partnering with the National Park Service to conduct research to understand mortality risks and inform management of nesting shorebirds and terns. Maureen returned to New England in 2019\, as a Wildlife Biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Rhode Island. She oversees the monitoring and management of piping plovers\, least terns\, and American oystercatchers across southern Rhode Island\, and works on a variety of projects related to coastal wildlife management. She also serves as the Piping Plover Recovery Lead for USFWS. \nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/82665513749 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16699009128\,\,82665513749# US (San Jose)\n+16694449171\,\,82665513749# US \nJoin via audio:\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 646 931 3860 US\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\nWebinar ID: 826 6551 3749\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kCjqz3hAC URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/atlantic-coast-piping-plovers-40-years-on-the-road-to-recovery/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Piping-Plover_M-Durkin_4163.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260510T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260510T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260326T204650Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260501T202424Z UID:38336-1778428800-1778432400@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:From Declines to Recovery: A Half Century of Changes in Migratory Songbird Abundance on Block Island DESCRIPTION:Join us for a VIRTUAL illustrated talk by DPNC Outreach Coordinator Lauren Michael\, who draws on more than 50 years of bird banding data from Block Island Banding Station – where each fall\, thousands of young songbirds pass through on their first migration south.\nThis talk explores the history of one of the longest running bird-banding stations in North America\, as well as how migratory songbird populations on Block Island have changed over time. By looking closely at long-term patterns\, we uncover a more nuanced—and more hopeful—story about migratory songbirds\, and what it may mean for their conservation today. \nWHEN: Sunday\, May 10\, 2026\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: Virtual via zoom \nJoin Zoom WebinarLauren Michael is the Outreach Coordinator at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center in Mystic\, CT. Before stepping into this role\, she spent most of her twenties crisscrossing North America as a field biologist\, studying a wide range of bird species — from songbirds and seabirds to the elusive rail. She received her MSc from the University of Rhode Island\, where she studied long-term trends in migratory songbirds on Block Island\, RI. Lauren earned a BA in Biology from Kenyon College in Gambier\, OH. \nAbove Myrtle Warbler photo by Bonello\, Jake\, Public Domain via FWS \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Song Sparrow\, photo by Ken Thomas\, Public domain\, via Wikimedia Commons\n \n \n \n \n \n Blue-headed Vireo\, photo by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren\, CC BY 2.0\, via Wikimedia Commons URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/from-declines-to-recovery-a-half-century-of-changes-in-migratory-songbird-abundance-on-block-island/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/yellow-rumped-warbler_usfws_Bonello_Jake.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260523T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260523T130000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260324T232208Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T162307Z UID:38265-1779534000-1779541200@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Gardening from the Ground Up: The Whys and Hows of Native Plants DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Museum to explore the heart of our ecosystem and discover how native plants play a thrilling role in sustaining our food chain and environment on Fishers Island. Our lineup of peers and professionals will unveil the secrets of native gardening – and its powerful impact on biodiversity.\nFeaturing the insightful Emily Baiden from the Wild Seed Project\, local legends Diana Fiske and Dianne Crary\, and the dynamic Maggie Redfern from the CT College Arboretum. Their stories and expertise will open your eyes to the wonders of our local flora and fauna\, offering you fresh\, actionable tips for incorporating these natural treasures into your own gardening projects! Learn how embracing native plants can transform your garden into a vibrant habitat that supports local wildlife\, conserves water\, and minimizes the need for harmful chemicals. Say goodbye to the time and effort spent on non-native species that struggle in our climate! \nAfter a series of lightning talks that are sure to spark your curiosity\, we’ll open the floor for a lively Q&A session! And don’t miss the chance to mingle and celebrate with fellow nature enthusiasts at our reception afterward. Enjoy delicious refreshments and explore the plant sale showcasing a colorful array of native species waiting to enhance your garden. But that’s not all—Maggie will guide a delightful excursion into the HLFM Land Trust Wildlife Sanctuary\, showcasing the beautiful trees she highlights in her talk. Come join the fun! \nWhen: Saturday\, May 23\, 2026\nTime: 11 am (Short Talks)\, 12 pm (Reception & Plant Sale)\nPlace: At the Museum\, second floor and virtual\, via zoom \nDon’t miss this chance to make a positive impact on our ecosystem through gardening! Program is free but space is limited\, so be sure to reserve your spot today. \nRegister Today!This event is organized by the Fishers Island Seagrass Management Coalition and sponsored by the Fishers Island Conservancy and the Henry L. Ferguson Museum. \nPhotos from 2025 Event: Right Place\, Right Plant – Native Plants and Practical Uses URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/gardening-from-the-ground-up-the-whys-and-hows-of-native-plants/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/iSt-835524206-native-plants.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260628T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260628T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260312T185851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T160759Z UID:38116-1782662400-1782666000@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Return to the Sky: The Reintroduction of the Bald Eagle DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Museum for an illustrated talk by Tina Morris\, one of the first women to engage in a raptor reintroduction program.\nIn 1976\, as the bald eagle was facing extinction in the continental U.S.\, Tina was beginning her graduate work at Cornell University. By luck and circumstance\, she was selected to reintroduce the species into New York state – in the hope that eagles could repopulate eastern North America. Young\, female\, with no experience\, she faced the challenges of saving this iconic bird while striving for acceptance in the unfamiliar male-dominated world of raptor biology. Playing mother to seven eagles forced her to transcend the isolation and tedium of field research to rescue an endangered species while in turn rescuing herself. Her remarkable story is as much about the human spirit as it is about birds of prey. \nWHEN: Sunday\, June 28\, 2026\nTIME: 4 p.m.\nPLACE: In person at the Museum and virtual via zoom\nReception and book signing to follow. \nJoin Zoom WebinarTina Morris completed her graduate work in ornithology and wildlife biology at Cornell in 1978\, writing her thesis on the adaptations of hacking techniques to reintroduce bald eagles. Following her studies at Cornell\, she worked for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Nature Conservancy for several years\, focusing on endangered species and critical habitat conservation\, before embarking on a 23-year career teaching English and biology. Since her retirement in 2020\, she has devoted her time to her own writing\, especially creative non-fiction with a science or nature focus. Thirty years ago\, with four children in tow\, Tina and her husband bought a farm in northern Massachusetts\, which they manage as a wildlife sanctuary\, promoting biodiversity and habitat protection for species in decline. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eagle in flight USFWS natdiglib16081\n \n \n\nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/86040872787 \nPhone one-tap:\n+16699009128\,\,86040872787# US (San Jose)\n+16694449171\,\,86040872787# US \nJoin via audio:\n+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)\n+1 669 444 9171 US\n+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n+1 719 359 4580 US\n+1 253 205 0468 US\n+1 689 278 1000 US\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n+1 305 224 1968 US\n+1 309 205 3325 US\n+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n+1 360 209 5623 US\n+1 386 347 5053 US\n+1 507 473 4847 US\n+1 564 217 2000 US\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 646 931 3860 US\nWebinar ID: 860 4087 2787\nInternational numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kClM0NPw3 URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/return-to-the-sky-the-reintroduction-of-the-bald-eagle/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Tina_Morris_wEagle004.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260712T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260712T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260408T162641Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T162937Z UID:38487-1783872000-1783875600@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:The Once and Future Osprey DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Museum for an illustrated talk by Dr. Paul Spitzer on the rise of osprey populations over the past 70 years and their potential fall due to menhaden shortage.\nThis talk is presented by the ornithologist who led the campaign to restore ospreys in the northeast in the 1960s and 1970s. \nWhen: Sunday\, July 12\, 2026\nTime: 4 pm\nPlace: In person at the Museum\, 2nd floor and virtual via zoom\nReception to follow. \nEcologist Paul Randolph Spitzer has a lifelong love affair with the East Coast of North America.  His scientific studies began with failing Ospreys in 1968\, when they were severely impacted by DDT in some areas.  He was then a protégé of bird-people Roger and Barbara Peterson\, and a biology student at CT’s Wesleyan U.  DDT’s destruction of bird life\, reported by Rachel Carson in “Silent Spring”\, demanded more evidence and proofs.  Thus Paul devoted his 1970’s decade to detailed Osprey biology studies\, for his Cornell U. doctorate.  He happily documented initial northeastern Osprey recovery\, NJ to MA\, as DDT passed out of ecosystems.  His PhD thesis predicted Ospreys’ subsequent success in many parts of the world.  Paul says: “That decade based at Cornell was the making of me as a scientist and a humanist”. \nIn the 1980’s\, between international conservation projects in India\, Central America\, and New Zealand\, Paul gradually made the Choptank River–on Maryland’s eastern shore of Chesapeake Bay–his home for life.  Chesapeake Osprey population studies anchored him here\, by our “Choptank Osprey Garden”.  Currently\, Chesapeake  Ospreys are under detailed study as bioindicators of their Menhaden prey base depletion. \nPaul is currently completing “Dark of the Loon”\, his ecologist’s memoir about three decades of nonbreeding Common Loon study\, 1988-2020\, along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts.  He seeks a friendly editor and strong publisher for his book.  He can tell you about his long and happy boater’s life of Osprey and Loon study cruises. URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/the-once-and-future-osprey/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Osprey_Burton-Robert-H_USFWS.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260719T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260719T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260212T105919Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260212T171855Z UID:37925-1784476800-1784480400@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:How Native American People Lived on Fishers Island DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Museum for an illustrated talk with archaeologist John Pfeiffer who will give an overview of Fishers Island archaeology that focuses on the excavation of sites\, artifacts discovered\, and John’s interpretation of how Native American people lived on the Island. This talk is based on co-research during the 1980s and 1990s\, with Dr. Robert Funk of the New York State Museum – which began as a survey of what had been discovered earlier\, and evolved into a thorough study focusing on newly discovered sites\, as well as scientific excavations of some of the earlier known places where prehistoric materials had been found. Together\, the data generated a reasonable picture of how island resources were utilized by indigenous people and how the availability of such resources changed over time. Funk and Pfeiffer’s experience from mainland archaeological sites\, when compared to the discoveries on Fishers\, demonstrated a special island adaptation that permitted stable subsistence throughout the entire year – which was not always the pattern witnessed within inland sites\, and in some instances\, scarcity and famine had been revealed. \nWhen: Sunday\, July 19\, 2026\nTime: 4-5 pm\nPlace: At the Museum\, 2nd floor and virtual\, via zoom \nThe archaeological investigation of Fishers Island by Funk and Pfeiffer was guided by Charles Ferguson\, whose family had been residents for over a century. Charlie and his father\, Henry\, kept a watchful eye upon the discovery and recording of Native American artifacts found. A section of the H. L. Ferguson Museum was dedicated to their initial archaeological studies. Charlie’s daughter Marnie wrote a report that complemented their findings and the museum’s displays. \nDr. John Pfeiffer during the decade long archaeological investigation of Fishers Island (1986-1996). \nAbout John\nDr. Pfeiffer has lived in coastal Connecticut for his entire life and began his archaeological career at an early age\, working locally as a high school student.  Before entering college\, John worked in England as an archaeologist on Roman and Arthurian sites. He majored in Anthropology at the University of Connecticut\, then continued his anthropology and archaeology studies at Wesleyan University\, earning a master’s degree. He received his PhD in anthropology from the State University of New York at Albany.  There he met his mentor\, colleague\, and long-time friend Bob Funk who was the New York State Archaeologist. Together they worked on many sites throughout New York State and after a full day of excavation\, they would retire to a ping-pong table and play well into the night. On Fishers they were often joined by the field crew and their host\, Charlie Ferguson. \nThe above Mural of West Harbor was painted by former Museum president\, Charlie Ferguson. URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/how-native-american-people-lived-on-fishers-island/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/HLFM_Native-American-WestHarbor-CBF.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260726T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260726T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260316T224616Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T225810Z UID:38169-1785081600-1785085200@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Biography as Pilgrimage: On the Trail of Peter Matthiessen DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Museum for an illustrated talk by author\, Lance Richardson\, who will discuss his eight-year undertaking — including a two-hundred mile trek in the Himalayas of Nepal — to write a biography of the twentieth century literary titan Peter Matthiessen\, a novelist\, naturalist\, and Zen roshi\, whose trailblazing work championed Native American rights and helped usher in the modern environmental movement.\nWHEN: Sunday\, July 26\, 2026\nTIME: 4-5 p.m.\nPLACE: In person at the Museum and virtual via zoom\nReception and book signing to follow. \nMatthiessen’s many books include travel classic The Snow Leopard\, and also Men’s Lives\, a moving account of the lives and struggles of East End Bonackers. He spent many childhood summers on Fishers Island. \nLance Richardson’s new book\, True Nature: The Pilgrimage of Peter Matthiessen\, was published in October 2025 to international acclaim. The Washington Post\, The New Yorker\, and Vogue named it one of the most notable books of the year. Richardson’s previous book\, House of Nutter: The Rebel Tailor of Savile Row\, was a New York Times Editors’ Choice and named one of the notable titles of 2018 by The Sunday Times\, The Mail on Sunday\, Esquire and the American Library Association. He has been awarded numerous awards and fellowships\, including a year-long residency at the New York Public Library’s Cullman Center. He currently teaches in the MFA Writing program at Bennington College\, Vermont. \nMatthiessen in the Himalayas photo by George Schaller \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Peter Matthiessen\n \n \n \n \n \n Matthiessen family off Fishers Island URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/biography-as-pilgrimage-on-the-trail-of-peter-matthiessen/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Matthiessen_in_Himalayas_Photo-by-George-Schaller.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260802T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260802T170000 DTSTAMP:20260511T180817 CREATED:20260316T133050Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T133050Z UID:38152-1785686400-1785690000@fergusonmuseum.org SUMMARY:Shorebirds of the Northeast: Success Stories and Species on the Precipice DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illustrated talk by Wildlife Biologist\, Maureen Durkin\, who will provide an introduction to shorebirds and their ecology – and explore what makes them unique and vulnerable in a changing world. This presentation will highlight some of the species that can be seen on our local beaches\, including both resident breeding species and Arctic-nesting migrants\, with a special focus on American oystercatchers and red knots.\nWhen: Sunday\, August 2\, 2026\nTime: 4-5 pm\nPlace: At the Museum\, 2nd floor and virtual\, via zoom\nReception to follow \nFor those of us who spend time on beaches\, marshes\, and coastlines of the northeast\, shorebirds are a familiar sight\, from tiny sandpipers to boisterous oystercatchers. However\, shorebirds are among the groups of birds undergoing the steepest declines\, as they face a myriad of threats in their breeding\, migration\, and wintering grounds. \nMaureen Durkin with juvenile oystercatcher \nMaureen Durkin is a Rhode Island-based Wildlife Biologist specializing in coastal birds and management of threatened and endangered species. She received her undergraduate degree from Connecticut College\, where she had some of her formative academic experiences in ecology in and around Long Island Sound. Maureen became fascinated by shorebirds while working field technician jobs around the Gulf of Mexico after college. She went on to receive her M.S. from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse\, NY\, conducting her research on the impacts of recreational disturbance to snowy plovers in the Florida Panhandle. She continued working in Florida for several more years through SUNY-ESF\, partnering with the National Park Service to conduct research to understand mortality risks and inform management of nesting shorebirds and terns. Maureen returned to New England in 2019\, as a Wildlife Biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Rhode Island. She oversees the monitoring and management of piping plovers\, least terns\, and American oystercatchers across southern Rhode Island\, and works on a variety of projects related to coastal wildlife management. She also serves as the Piping Plover Recovery Lead for USFWS. \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n American oystercatcher with chick\, USFWS\n \n \n \n \n \n Red knots along Delaware Bay near Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge\, Gregory Breese\, USFWS URL:https://fergusonmuseum.org/event/shorebirds-of-the-northeast-success-stories-and-species-on-the-precipice/ CATEGORIES:Illustrated Lecture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fergusonmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/american-oystercatcher-usfws.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR