A Crazy Idea that Worked – The National Peace Jubilee of 1869

It's Also History

It’s Also History: Tales & Tidbits from Alan’s Archives

Alan Foulds is a local historian who has written several historically related articles in addition to his book, “Boston’s Ballparks &  Arenas.” He is a major contributor to the writing of “At Wood End.” Mr. Foulds is also Reading’s Town Moderator.

When the Civil War came to a close, musician Patrick Gilmore developed a fantastical idea to help heal the nation’s wounds – a large-scale concert featuring thousands of performers to be held in a temporary building holding 50,000 spectators. Nearly everyone thought he was crazy, but, against all odds, he pulled it off.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email