Frontyard Growers: Algonquian Farmers of Cape Ann

Location

This Zoom Lunch & Learn by local historian Mary Ellen Lepionka compares the practices of indigenous and colonial farmers on Cape Ann during the 17th century. Who were they? How and where did they plant? What did they grow? How did land pass from Algonquians to colonists on Cape Ann? What role did enslaved people and freed slaves play in the Cape Ann farm economy? Was Dogtown farmed? What can we learn from indigenous growers about conserving land, managing trees, using our soil and water, cultivating crops for food and medicine, preserving harvests, and saving seed? What inspiration can we draw from Algonquian garden designs and community feasting?

Mary Ellen Lepionka of Gloucester is a retired anthropologist, college instructor, author, and textbook editor who embarked on a study of the archaeology and early history of Cape Ann and Essex County from the last Ice Age to around 1700. Her articles on indigenous history here appear in the Bulletin of the Massachusetts Archaeological Society and at capeannhistory.org, Enduringgloucester.com, and Historicipswich.org. When not researching and writing, Mary Ellen enjoys gardening and is continually inspired by her amazing daughter Lara (Backyard Growers' founder & executive director) and Backyard Growers.

Thanks to our Cultivator & Harvester sponsors for making this programming possible: Annisquam Landcare Inc, Bach Builders LLC, Beth Israel Lahey Health Addison Gilbert Hospital, Black Earth Compost, Brian Orr Pediatrics, Building Center, The Caleb Group, Cape Ann Savings Bank, Cedar Rock Gardens, Common Crow Market, Engel & Volkers By the Sea, Rockport Mortgage Corporation, Sawyer Free Library, and Short & Main