Upcoming virtual programs from Wake County Public Libraries!

Many of you will remember the excellent series of OUTLANDER-themed virtual programs presented last year by the Wake County (NC) Public Libraries. (In case you missed them, the recordings are available here.) They just announced that they will be putting on another set of three virtual programs in July and August, in honor of America's 250th birthday, featuring topics that will appeal to OUTLANDER fans!

As we commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, we’re hosting a special three-part virtual series that brings history to life through fascinating stories, memorable characters, and expert presenters. Two of our featured speakers may already be familiar to you: Dr. Rebecca Simon (from the Outlander program Saltwater Scoundrels: Pirates and Privateers on the High Seas) and Hunter Ingram (from the program Outlander’s North Carolina: Where Fiction Meets History, and moderator of the conversation with author Diana Gabaldon at the NC First in Freedom Festival), both of whom were popular presenters in last fall’s series.

All programs are live-only [no recording will be provided] and free to attend, but registration is required.

Here are the descriptions of the three programs. To register, click on each of the individual pages and you'll see a link to sign up. You don't need to be a resident of North Carolina to attend these virtual programs!

Pirates of the Carolinas (July 21, 2026, from 7-8 pm ET)

Join Dr. Rebecca Simon, historian of early modern piracy, Colonial America, the Atlantic World, and author of three books on piracy to explore the history of piracy along the Carolina coast, featuring legendary pirates, hidden treasures, and coastal lore. Discover how these seafaring figures shaped the region’s culture and maritime history.

Footsteps Through the Revolution (July 23, 2026, from 7-8 pm ET)

Join travel writer and historian Adele Lassiter of American Nomad Traveler for a journey through North Carolina’s pivotal role in the American Revolution. From battlefields to backcountry legends, discover the sites that shaped our nation as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Along the way, Adele shares how pop‑culture favorites like Outlander have renewed interest in NC’s Revolutionary past and the real stories behind it.

A Toast to Revolution (August 11, 2026, from 7-8 pm ET)

Join us in a toast to the revolution with Hunter Ingram of the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens as we explore the bold acts of resistance that stirred revolutionary spirit in the Cape Fear region and celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. From the Stamp Act uprising to the legendary Wilmington Ladies’ Tea Walk, discover how local defiance helped shape a nation.

As a longtime resident of Wake County (I live in Raleigh, NC), I'm proud of the fact that my local library is putting on these programs that will appeal to OUTLANDER fans everywhere! I'm sure you'll enjoy them.

Please spread the word to anyone you know who may be interested. Thanks!