Revolutionary Portsmouth Lecture Series “The Enduring Legacy of Wentworth Cheswill”

“Revolutionary Portsmouth” Joint Lecture Series: The Enduring Legacy of Wentworth Cheswill Thursday, November 12, 2026, 5:30–6:30 p.m. Portsmouth Historical Society, 10 Middle Street, Portsmouth John Herman offers a closer look at Wentworth Cheswill, a pioneering and often overlooked figure in early American history. An archaeologist, messenger rider, and the first person of African descent elected to public office in the United States, Cheswill’s life reflects a remarkable journey from enslavement to civic leadership. This talk highlights his lasting impact and the broader story of Black history in Revolutionary-era New England. John Herman is an artist, educator, and performer whose work brings local history to life. His practice spans visual art and improvisational theatre, and he has been featured in NH PBS’s Granite State Challenge as part of its America250 programming. He is the author of Wentworth Cheswill’s Ride: Chasing a Would-Be American Folk Hero. Chris Dwyer M. Christine “Chris” Dwyer is co-owner and Senior Vice President of RMC Research, a national education consulting firm based in Portsmouth since 1985 where she has specialized in literacy, early childhood policy and school improvement as well as research in arts and culture. She served seven terms on the Portsmouth City Council, where she played key roles in major civic projects: co-chairing the Middle School renovation, leading the Prescott Park master plan, and fundraising for the African Burying Ground. Chris has been a prominent advocate and leader in arts and culture—founding chair of Art‑Speak, chair of the NH State Council on the Arts, Board president of the Currier Museum of Art and the Portsmouth Music Hall. She currently co-chairs Portsmouth’s Public Art Review Committee.