Early photography had a magical quality, even for those who understood the science behind it. For many in the 19th century, the relationship between science and the supernatural was unclear.

Sympathetic photographers and charlatans set up a brisk business “securing the shadow,” memorializing deceased loved ones, and, for the right price, revealing their ethereal presence still hovering around the living.

Local historian and Executive Director of the Museum of Old Newbury, Bethany Groff Dorau, takes attendees on an illustrated exploration of Victorian photography from beyond the grave.

FREE FOR ALL thanks to Mass Humanities