Concord Thoreau Society to host CNN presidential historian

The Thoreau Society and the Transcendentalism Council and Environmental Leadership Team of First Parish will welcome historian Douglas Brinkley at 7 p.m. May 13 at First Parish, 20 Lexington Road, Concord.

Brinkley, a New York Times best-selling author and the CNN presidential historian, will present his new book, “Rightful Heritage: Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Land of America.” He examines FDR’s role as premier protector of public lands and founder of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Roosevelt spearheaded development of the endangered species program and preserved miles of shoreline and waterways for public use.

Douglas Brinkley, a professor of history at Rice University, is the author of over 30 books on American history and a contributing editor at Vanity Fair and Audubon. The Chicago Tribune has dubbed him “America’s new past master.”

A reception will follow the presentation, and books will be available for purchase. Cost: $5 suggested donation at the door. For information: 978-369-9602.