What is “Watt’s Cellar”? Why? Who was “Watt”? What’s a “cellar”? And, most importantly, where is it? Come to hear a story predating colonization by the Newbury first settlers, where native peoples play a large role. It’s a downtown Newburyport history mystery, with sex, drunkenness, political power struggles, and little-known aspects of our colonial history that no one wants to talk about. Until now.

Jack Santos is a technology research analyst during the day and a local amateur historian at night; during the day he speaks internationally about technology, and its impact on society and business. At night, he skulks about research libraries for information on former residents of his 230 year old home - like Newburyport merchant Abraham Wheelwright, and his son Jeremiah Wheelwright - lost in a shipwreck at sea. And you should try his experimental smartphone walking tour. Every Yankee Homecoming, Jack organizes the "If This House Could talk" event in Newburyport. It's sponsored by the Newburyport Preservation Trust. Residents put a poster board in front of their homes that explains something unique (current or past) about their house or occupants.

Registration for this event ends September 12 at 5:00 PM. Patrons who do not have email addresses may register by calling the library at 978-465-4428 x242. Registration does not guarantee a seat.