Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at 5:00 PM until 8:15 PMEastern Daylight Time UTC -04:00
The Inn at Swarthmore10 S Chester RdSwarthmore, PA 19081United States
Betsy Bolton, Alexander Griswold Cummins Professor of English, Swarthmore College
Which local inhabitants shaped early colonial encounters, transforming landscapes across the continent? What connects a famous Elvis song about an impoverished woman to the Declaration of Independence? Swarthmore’s Crum Creek and Woodlands offer a fascinating microcosm of colonial settlement and its ecological impacts, including impacts on human residents. With photographs, poems, videos, and anecdotes, we’ll explore some of the unexpected connections the Woods have to offer, including impacts reaching far beyond our borders. The Swarthmore Discussion Group (SDG) presents exceptional speakers on timely topics in a social setting that encourages stimulating discussion. In doing so, SDG enriches the lives and friendships of its members and enhances a sense of community among Swarthmore College alumni, students, their families, nearby residents, and other friends. Our speakers are distinguished scholars, community leaders, and field experts. Following their presentations on topics including politics, foreign affairs, economics, culture, and social issues, they welcome questions from and discussions with and among members.
Schedule: 5:15–6 p.m. (optional) Happy Hour 6 p.m. Dinner 7–8:15 p.m. Talk and Q&A