LEWISTON — John Mann, chairman of the Maine Ulster Scots Project and professional land surveyor, author and frequent lecturer on the Scots and Scots-Irish history in Maine, will present the program at the Lewiston-Auburn Senior College at USM “Food for Thought” 11:30 a.m. luncheon on Friday, Nov. 9.

Mann is the author of “Ulster-Scots on the Coast of Maine” and numerous articles on the “Scots-Irish” in Maine. He will discuss the circumstances, living conditions and experiences of the people who arrived at the District of Maine, America’s “Eastern Frontier,” during the 60 years prior to the American Revolutionary War.

Mann will use PowerPoint images of historic maps, photographs, eye witness accounts, period songs and poetry to shed light on the living conditions and challenges faced by Maine’s early pioneering families.

A discussion will follow on the heritage, culture and character traits that have been associated with this component of Maine’s diverse population. The state has one of the highest percentages of Scots and Scots-Irish descendants in the country. There has been little research or documentation of this group or their influence on local culture.

The goal of the Maine Ulster Scots Project (MUSP) is to save and share the stories of Maine’s first Scots and Scots-Irish families. MUSP is sponsored by the St. Andrews Society of Maine, a charitable organization that raises money for granting scholarships to individuals studying their Scottish heritage.

Mann will also have George Pulkkinnen, a piper, and the Highland Fiddlers accompany him, providing entertainment during the luncheon hour. Mann and Pulkkinnen will be attired in full Scottish regalia. The Highland Fiddlers will wear and display the Maine Tartan.

Patricia Vampatella, who is chairwoman of the Food for Thought program, is encouraging attendees to wear their plaids for the occasion.

In order to allow time for the entertainment portion, the doors will open at 11 a.m. instead of the usual 11:30. Beginning Friday, Nov. 2, the reservation line will be checked daily. Vampatella said call-in reservations should be made promptly as seating is limited to 112 seats. Registrations will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-ins that day may be accepted if space is available.

Senior College presents the program monthly in Function Room 170 at USM LAC. The cost, which includes lunch, is $7 with advance reservation or $8 at the door. Reservations must be made by noon Thursday, Nov. 8, by calling 753-6510. Any late callers will be considered “at the door.”

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