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Norwalk Historical Society Talk Focuses On First Black Diplomat In U.S.

NORWALK, Conn. – To celebrate Black History Month, the Norwalk Historical Society is holding a talk on the life of Ebenezer D. Bassett, a pioneering black educator who served as the United States’ first black diplomat after the Civil War.

Ebenezer D. Bassett

Ebenezer D. Bassett

Photo Credit: Contributed

Carolyn Ivanoff, an award-winning local historian and educator, is set to deliver the talk, which she has called “The Life and Times of a Quiet American Hero – Ebenezer D. Bassett,” at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 15. Tickets to the event cost $5 at the door.

Ivanoff, an assistant principal at Shelton High School, was named the Civil War Trust’s Civil War Teacher of the Year in 2003, according to the Historical Society, which said that she is well versed in Bassett’s life from his birth in Derby, Conn., through his adult years.

Her talk was awarded a Connecticut League of History Organization Award of Merit in June 2010.

If bad weather forces the cancellation of Ivanoff’s talk on Feb. 15, a makeup date has been scheduled for 6 p.m. Feb. 22, according to the Historical Society.

The talk is to be held at the Norwalk Historical Society, 141 East Ave. It can also be accessed through Norwalk City Hall, 125 East Ave. Seating for the event is limited and those wishing to attend are asked to RSVP in advance.

To RSVP or to learn more, email info@norwalkhistoricalsociety.org or call 203-846-0525. The Norwalk Historical Society can also be found online.

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