The Lawrence Historical Society is pleased to announce the 6th Annual Mary Tanner Lecture will take place on October 11 at 2:00 p.m., in the Seminar Room in the Student Recreation Center at Rider University.

The topic of the lecture will be "The Curious Career and the Fateful Future of the Delaware and Raritan Canal." 2009 marks the 175th Anniversary of the opening of the canal. Since its initial planning in the 1830s, the canal has played a vital role in New Jersey and American history, serving as a major transportation route for frieght, a safe haven to transport troops during the World Wars and as an environmental asset as a water source and park. Hunter and Green will address the historical development and use of the canal as well as touch upon the future of this unique working historical landmark.

The lecture series is presented in honor of long-time Lawrence resident Mary Tanner, PhD in American History from Radcliffe, who was a founding member of the Lawrence Historical Society and served on its board of trustees until she moved from Lawrenceville to Maryland.  Ms. Tanner was the first woman elected to Lawrence Township Council and an active member of many local organizations during the many years she lived in town. Past lecturers have included Pulitzer Prize winners Gordon Wood and James McPherson.