A Concert: 19th Century Songs of Whimsy by Tom & Friends

Sunday, August 7 at 4:30 PM

Please consider making a suggested donation of $5 to support The Friends of the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage, a non-profit organization that manages the daily operations and spreads awareness of the site and Grant. Your donation will help us provide more programming, while supporting historic preservation.

Those living in the United States during the 1800s shared their common humanity by seeking occasional respite from life’s daily toil and discomforts and from a Civil War that lasted for four tragic years. In response, contemporary composers offered emotional relief through music and diversion from feelings of sadness. Their music enriched private family and community occasions in a playful and (to our sensibilities) quaint manner. Many of these songs endure today - still lifting spirits and making people smile. Listen to Tess McCarthy (mezzo-soprano), David Rudnick (tenor), Joe Gitto (harmonica), and Tom Smith (guitar & Grant Cottage tour guide) present music from another period in our nation’s history for this memorable concert on Grant Cottage’s porch. This concert features a special performance of a tune composed to praise Ulysses S. Grant, likely not performed in public since the late 19th Century.