Researchers the world over rely on primary sources—first hand accounts of events—to learn about what life was like for people of all ages throughout the historical record. Particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever that we focus on documenting lived experiences so that they can be memorialized for future generations. In “Stories from the Pandemic”, a two-day program led by recent Lexington High School graduate Sarah Baskin, middle schoolers will learn how primary sources are analyzed and curated, and then have the chance to create their own authentic representation of what life has been like for them during the pandemic. At the program’s conclusion, participants will have the option to submit their creation to the Lexington Historical Society, where it will inspire discussion and exploration for decades to come.

Sarah Baskin is a graduate of Lexington High School who will be attending Brandeis University in the fall. She was the co-president of the Creative Writing Club at Lexington High for three years, and was a finalist at the Massachusetts Historical Society’s National History Day Essay Competition, where she was also awarded ‘Best Project in Civics’.  She has been a Girl Scout since the 1st grade, and during that time has served on the Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts Board of Directors, and earned her Bronze and Silver Awards. She is currently working towards earning her Gold Award, of which this program is a part.

Space is limited.  Registration is required.  You must be able to attend both days to participate in this program.