Local History: Ku Klux Klan in NE in the 1920's, Tuesday October 22

October 22, 2024

Most New Englanders think of the Ku Klux Klan as a Southern institution targeting mainly African-Americans. But in the 1920s the Klan was nationwide and enjoyed strong support in the North and West, as well as the South. In addition to people of color, the 1920s Klan also targeted Catholics, Jews, immigrants, and organized labor. In his presentation, author David Vermette will explore the history of the so-called “Second Klan” of the 1920s focusing especially on the Klan’s New England chapters. In particular, he will focus on the conflict between the Klan and New England’s Franco-American (French-Canadian) population, one of the largest minorities in the region during that period.

This program will be held on Zoom. Register for the link!

About the Presenter
David Vermette is the author of the book A Distinct Alien Race: The Untold Story of Franco-Americans (Montreal: Baraka Books, 2018). He is a writer, editor, researcher, blogger, and frequent speaker on the subject of New England’s Franco-Americans. Vermette was born and raised in Massachusetts.

Ku Klux Klan members in white robes