Winter Lecture Series: “The Art of the Eel” at Peconic Landing

Southold Historical Society’s Winter Lecture Series begins with “The Art of the Eel”

January 8, 2019 at 4pm

Peconic Landing Auditorium, 1500 Brecknock Rd. Greenport, NY  11944 

Southold Historical Society is pleased to be partnering with Peconic Landing to once again offer a Winter Lecture Series.  To kick off the series, Stephen N. Sanfilippo, who holds a Ph.D. in History, will present “The Art of the Eel” an eclectic presentation on the history of eel fishing, to be accompanied by music and poetry.

Stephen Sanfilippo always observes an old Italian custom by eating eel on Christmas Eve.  This custom is observed throughout Italy and the Italian diaspora, especially in fishing communities such as Stephen’s native Brooklyn, and throughout other parts of Long Island.  Perhaps no place has stronger cultural ties to eeling than Long Island, where eels and eel fishing have inspired many artisans, fine artists, folk artists, writers, poets, folklorists, chefs, and inventors for centuries.  From the crafting and forging of deadly eel spears in local blacksmith shops to the poetic beauty of songs and paintings about eel spearing, Stephen’s presentation will combine visuals, artifacts, recitations, and singing.  Audience commentary and participation will be a welcome part of this seafaring adventure. This program promises to be an intriguing, mixed-media experience, a close look at the important role eel fishing has played in Long Island culture.

The lecture will be held in the Peconic Landing Community Center’s auditorium at 1500 Brecknock Rd., Greenport, NY  11944 on January 8, 2019 at 4pm.  Admission is free.  RSVP is recommended by calling 631.765.5500.

For more information on this event or any other society programs, please call 631.765.5500 or visit www.southoldhistorical.org.