Local History: The Ku Klux Klan in New England in the 1920s

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.

Questions? Contact Katie Czajkowski by email at cfczajkowski@cityofportsmouth.com or by phone at 603-766-1723.