“Prejudice is not so much dependent upon natural antipathy as upon education.”
The “Extinguisher” Extinguished, David Ruggles, 1834
Upstate New York in the mid-19th century is a cauldron bubbling with the lure of fast fortunes, religious zealotry, and battles for civil liberties. This fervor centers on the Erie Canal, which successfully supports scores of villages brimming with opportunity. One such village, Fayetteville, shapes the lives of two future American leaders: the suffragist Matilda Joslyn Gage and President Grover Cleveland.
High Bridge tells the stories of a young newlywed, the only child of freethinking abolitionists, and a prankster lad who grows up in the large family of an austere reverend. Despite their different childhoods and worldviews, they form an unlikely friendship. Can they combine their skills to solve a mystery and vindicate a Black man accused of murder?
Refreshments will be served! Masks optional.
Michael Miller was born in a small town in New Jersey similar to Fayetteville, NY. Much like young Cleveland, he played baseball, delivered the daily newspaper, and tramped through the woods. Through small town life, he learned to respect people regardless of their backgrounds and appreciate the gifts each person brought to the world. Miller continues to get great joy from his family, exploring the outdoors, and volunteer community service.