Coastal Senior College, serving Lincoln and Knox Counties, is offering eleven winter courses this season, eight of them on Zoom, making them accessible to all from home. Registrations will be accepted beginning on Dec. 16. 

On Wednesdays, historian Jayne Gordon will teach, “The Loyalists and the American Revolution: A Different Kind of Patriotism?”

“As we examine aspects of the American Revolution during the nationwide observance of its 250th anniversary,” Gordon states, “we turn to the people who opposed separation from Britain: the Loyalists. Who were they? Why did they feel the best course was to remain with the Mother Country? How did their situations influence their decisions? How did they voice their opinions? How were they treated by others in their communities? What happened to them during the war - and afterward? What happened here in the District of Maine? As we explore these questions, we will also discuss the implications of the Loyalist experience for our divided country today. How could those dissenting voices be heard, represented honestly, and honored in a way that avoids both the tyranny of the majority and of the minority?”

This discussion-oriented class will be taught on Zoom. Instructor Jayne Gordon has taught many history-related courses for CSC, including several on aspects of the American Revolution. A public historian, she was Director of Education at the Massachusetts Historical Society.

Vigorous class discussions in CSC Courses offer an opportunity to learn and connect with other students who are primarily 50 and older.

Three classes in the winter courses series will be offered in person in Damariscotta and Newcastle. Eight other classes, including this one, will be offered online. Information about Coastal Senior College and the winter term courses can be found at coastalseniorcollege.org.