Join Historic Beverly for a delectable journey through taste, tradition, and transformation in the world of 18th-century chocolate. This interactive demonstration explores the fascinating history of chocolate during the 18th century, a pivotal time when this once-exclusive beverage became a beloved delicacy across the world. We will examine the origins of chocolate, tracing its journey from Mesoamerica to its introduction in Spain and subsequent spread across the continent and back to the American colonies. Historian and educator Michele Gabrielson will have a table prepared with material culture items, and with the added option of sampling chocolate that would have been enjoyed by colonial Bostonians, this will be an experience sure to leave a lasting impression!

Michele Gabrielson is a local history teacher and historic interpreter of the 18th century.  When she is not teaching in the classroom, Michele can be found leading tours, lectures, and demonstrations at historic sites in the greater Boston area.  She specializes in interpreting the history of colonial women printers, the stories of loyalist refugees, and of 18th century chocolate makers!  Most recently, she has taken on building a first-person impression of the revolutionary playwright and poet Mercy Otis Warren.  Michele  additionally serves on several historical committees dedicated to helping preserve the history of colonial America, is a member of the Authenticity Standards Committee for Minuteman National Historic Park, and is the coordinator for the Battle Road Guides for the annual reenactment of the Battle of Lexington and Concord. She was recently awarded a 2024 Rising Star Award for Public History by the Massachusetts History Alliance for her programming titled, “The Revolutionary Classroom,” and named a finalist for the 2024 Massachusetts History Teacher of the Year.

$25/$15 for members of Historic Beverly and Card to Culture. Limited capacity, please register in advance.