Rock Ford will welcome guest speakers Curtis Royer and Jacob McCorkel as they present “Rediscovering Queer America in the 18th Century” on Sunday, June 23, 2019 at 2:00 pm. Their presentation will focus on the stories of individuals who engaged in homosocial bonding, same-sex relationships and/or otherwise defied norms in the 18th Century. This presentation primarily focuses on indigenous tribes, enslaved people and Europeans who inhabited what is now the eastern United States. The presenters will utilize queer theory to explore romantic friendships, gender norms, cross-dressing and other aspects of life for LGBT persons in 18th Century America.
This presentation will be held in the Rock Ford Barn and will be approximately one hour in length with a segment for questions. This presentation is free and open to the public.
Curtis Royer graduated with a Master of Arts in American Studies from the Pennsylvania State University in 2017. Curtis completed his thesis work on Representative Thaddeus Stevens’ pivotal role in politics and civil rights. He is a dynamic historian who has filled various museum positions in different capacities. He currently serves as a Weekend Supervisor at Rock Ford and volunteers with the LGBT Center of Central PA’s History Project.
Jacob McCorkel majors in social studies education at Millersville University. Jacob has an interest in civil rights and social history, involving the LGBTQIA+ community. He serves as a secretary of Millersville University ‘s Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA). He frequently attends and participates in presentations to local high schools as well as queer and trans leadership conferences. He currently serves as a Weekend Supervisor at Rock Ford.
