Join the 18th Century Cook\, Michael Smith
\, for a discussion and tasting of heirloom apple varieties of early New E
ngland. Apples are a fascinating \;fruit that thrived in 17th and 18th
century New England as new cultivars were developed and discovered by ear
ly European settlers. We'll delve into the prehistoric history and more mo
dern development of apples over an 8\,000 year period that begins in the m
ountains of Kazakhstan where this constantly mutating fruit is native.
\;
Once we are done learning\, patrons will be invited to t aste test the different apples and vote on their favorite.
\nThis pr ogram is brought to you through the generosity of the \;Friends of the Reading Public Library!
\n\nMichael Duncan Smith is a histor ian\, educator\, and artist based in Greater Boston. He is the creator of 18th Century Cook\, a project that brings early American recipes and culin ary traditions to life. His research centers on New England foodways in th e 18th century and during the American Revolution. Using primary sources s uch as cookbooks and newspapers\, Mike brings history to life with in-pers on demonstrations\, talks\, and tours. By using ingredients\, tools\, and techniques from the time\, he recreates everyday meals of early America.\n
In 2025\, Mike was awarded a Creative Individual Grant from t
he Massachusetts Cultural Council\, recognizing his role as a New England
culture-bearer and public educator. His project draws on both
histori
cal research and a deep commitment to making history accessible\, engaging
\, and meaningful to all audiences.