One of Maine’s best-known figures, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was not only a poet, writer and linguist, he was an international celebrity in the 1800s. Born in Portland, he became a dominant cultural force in the 19th century. His home remains a popular attraction in Portland. We will talk about his life, his work, and his impact on Maine—and beyond.
This show is part of Maine Calling's ongoing coverage of topics relating to Maine's Bicentennial.
Guests
- John Babin, Visitor Services Manager, Wadsworth/Longfellow House, Maine Historical Society; he is the author of the book Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in Portland/The Fireside Poet of Maine.
- Christoph Irmscher, Provost Professor of English at Indian University in Bloomington; he has written three books on Longfellow
- Herb Adams, historian, former Maine legislator, tour guide at the Wadsworth-Longfellow House
Resources