The Ticonderoga Historical Society will present a free public program on Friday, June 18 at 7 p.m.  at the Hancock House, 6 Moses Circle, Ticonderoga.  “The Story of Timbuctoo: Black Voting Rights in the Adirondacks” will open the museum’s exhibit and program theme for the year.

“History, Race and Gender in the Adirondacks” is a series of conversations, exhibits and programs addressing themes of gender and racial equality.

Program presenter will be Pete Nelson, who will offer a look into efforts to establish voting rights for free Blacks in the North Elba region of the Adirondacks in the 1840s.  An avid writer, lecturer and Adirondack history buff whose articles appear regularly in numerous regional publications,  Nelson is a mathematics teacher and history lecturer at North Country Community College, and a co-founder of the Adirondack Diversity Initiative.  He has been involved in diversity work for more than three decades, from community work to academic institutions and politics.

The program will be held outdoors, under a tent and attendees should bring their own lawn chairs.  Reservations may be made by calling the Hancock House at 518-585-7868 or via e-mail to:  tihistory@bridgepoint1.com.