If you’ve ever run into Ann Beattie on Star Island, you’ll know she’s got a lot to share. Last year, Ann took up residency on Star Island as Island Historian, and we’re excited to announce that she’ll be returning for summer 2020. Here’s a look at the programming she’ll be offering this season:

Wondrous Isles: Explore four centuries of life on the nine stark and hauntingly beautiful Isles of Shoals through a series of fascinating historical images.

Infamous Isles of Shoals: Investigate the lore and legends of Shoals and determine the truth behind stories of pirates, treasure, ghosts and murder just 10 miles off the coasts of Maine and New Hampshire.

Notorious Shoals Dunfish: Discover how cod fueled the settlement of New England and go back in time to the era when the Isles of Shoals was the busiest spot in the New World.

Isles of Shoals Resorts: Find out why hundreds of people packed their trucks and spent the summer at one of the Isles of Shoals resort hotels in the 19th century and why hundreds of people continue to explore the natural beauty of the Shoals today

The Oceanic – 140 Years at Sea: Investigate the legacy of the Isles of Shoals’ grand Oceanic Hotel, one of New England’s few remaining Victorian resort hotels. Discover how flames destroyed the hotels, and learn of the ingenious effort in creating a second grand Oceanic Hotel.

Oceanic Regatta: One-hundred and fifty years ago, Gosport Harbor was filled with hundreds of sails unfurled in the wind as the Oceanic Regatta drew national attention to the Shoals. Hear about the yachts, the races, the amazing prizes and the characters that dominated the contests.

Celia Thaxter’s Salon: The Isles of Shoals have inspired writers, musicians and artists for centuries. Explore the lives and work of the famous visitors to poet Celia Thaxter’s salon and discover how they collaborated to produce some of their finest pieces.

Poetic Isles: Living on the storm-tossed Isles of Shoals inspired poet Celia Thaxter to write countless poems, some of them surprisingly relevant today. Explore Thaxter’s experiences at the Isles and discover the meaning behind her work.

Murder at the Shoals: Over 125 years ago, two women were murdered on an isolated island at the Isles of Shoals. One woman survived and the story she told scandalized the nation. Revisit the crime and decide for yourself who was really responsible for the tragic deaths on Smuttynose Island.

We hope you’ll get to hear one of Ann’s famous talks during your visit this summer. By the way, it’s time to register!