Quaker Scholar To Speak at Susan B Anthony Birthplace Museum Celebration

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ADAMS, Mass.—Psychology-of-peace expert, author, and Quaker Dr. Rachel M. MacNair will be speak at the annual birthday celebration for Susan. B. Anthony. Hosted by the Susan B. Anthony Birthday Museum in Adams, Mass., the event will take place on Sunday, Feb. 15 at 2:00 p.m. in G.A.R. Memorial Hall at the Adams Free Library, 92 Park Street.

Dr. MacNair is a nationally recognized psychologist, sociologist, author, and peace scholar whose work reflects a lifelong commitment to Quaker principles of equality and nonviolence, values deeply shared by Susan B. Anthony and the Quaker community in which she was raised.

A graduate of Earlham College, a historic Quaker institution known for its emphasis on peace studies and civic responsibility, MacNair holds a doctorate in psychology with interdisciplinary training in sociology. Her work has been recognized with multiple professional awards honoring her contributions to ethics, education, and peace studies. In 2011, she was awarded the Outstanding Service Award from the American Psychological Association.

Born into a Quaker family in Adams, Mass., Susan B. Anthony was shaped by the Religious Society of Friends' (Quaker) teachings on the inherent equality and dignity of all people, which guided her lifelong advocacy for women's rights, abolition, and social justice.

"Dr. MacNair's scholarship offers a meaningful lens through which to understand Anthony's Quaker upbringing here in the Berkshires and how those values shaped her advocacy for women's rights throughout her life," said Lucy Czaja Anthony, an Adams' resident and Birthplace Museum board member.

The Feb. 15 event will begin with a reception for attendees, followed by the keynote speaker, and questions from the audience. Seating is limited, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early. G.A.R. Memorial Hall is located on the second floor. Elevator access is available via the Melrose Street entrance.

For more information, visit www.susanbanthonybirthplace.org or e-mail info@susanbanthonybirthplace.org.

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Friday Front Porch Feature: A Charming Home in Adams

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

ADAMS, Mass. — Are you looking for a charming and inviting home? Then this is the one for you.

Our Friday Front Porch is a weekly feature spotlighting attractive homes for sale in Berkshire County. This week, we are showcasing 125 Friend St.

This newly renovated 1960 home has three bedrooms and one bathroom. It is 1,239 square feet on a 1 1/2 acre lot.

The house includes a basement level two-car garage, an eat-in kitchen and a sunroom perfect for all seasons. The house recently got new paint, new carpets, and a new 200-amp electrical service.

It is on the market for $349,000.

We spoke with Stephanie Rapisarda from William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty, which holds the listing.

What do you think makes this house stand out in the current market?

It offers something difficult to find: a home that has been lovingly maintained by the same family for over six decades and is now being offered for the first time. Combined with its spacious 1.49 acre lot, beautifully renovated bathroom, and versatile four-season sunroom, this home presents a rare opportunity for buyers seeking both comfort and long-term value.

Do you know any unique stories about this home or its history?

Oh so many! My grandfather built the home. He and my grandmother raised their family there and when their kids had children, it remained a special haven for our entire family. My grandfather started his company CTC Inc. in the basement of the home, and his son still owns and operates the business today, now on a much larger scale.

The home's foundation is truly one of love. The pride of ownership is evident throughout the home, from its careful maintenance to the thoughtful updates that have preserved its character while enhancing everyday living. 

How would you describe the feel or atmosphere of this home?

Warm, welcoming, and easy to live in. The home has a comfortable Berkshire feel, with bright living spaces, a practical layout, and a peaceful setting that makes it easy to relax and unwind. The four-season sunroom, back porch and beautiful yard create a wonderful connection to the outdoors throughout the year while still being right in town.

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