Online Lunch and Learn: Meet Albert Walker from Glastonbury, the Magician Who Liked Large Noses

Please join us for a virtual presentation by Robert Olson for a discussion of the life and magic of Albert Walker. Walker worked a variety of jobs throughout his lifetime to support himself. He made cigars, played the fiddle, repaired clocks, made guns, kept bees, farmed for his father, and worked in different factories. Walker kept details of all of this in his 32 pocket diaries. Robert Olson spent six months, reading and transcribing the diaries, which are housed at the Connecticut Historical Society. They not only detailed much of his work but also his family life, and what he did for fun. He loved performing, especially as a magician.

Reading the diaries and letters in this amazing collection allowed Olson to get to know Albert Walker, as a magician, a family man, and a highly skilled metal worker. Walker is gone, but these diaries are almost like having him whisper in your ear. “Here I am, please get to know me!”

This virtual program is free. To secure a spot, register online. You will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom link attached, and we will send you a reminder on the day of the program.

Questions? Contact Jennifer Busa, Public Programs and Special Events Coordinator, at jennifer_busa@chs.org.