January 19, 2021 marks 212 years since the birth of Edgar Allan Poe and 218 years since the birth of Sarah Helen Whitman. Poe was born in Boston, Massachusetts to traveling actors, Elizabeth Arnold Poe and David Poe Jr. Whitman was born here in Providence, Rhode Island to parents Anna Marsh Power and Nicholas Power. These Providence lovers did, in fact, share a birthday—and we are left to imagine the impressive birthday bash they would have thrown if they got married.
2020 was a harrowing year for us all, to say the least. While 2021 is looking brighter, we are still not out of the woods just yet. Fans across the world will be celebrating this day virtually, with many online events happening on just about every social media platform you can think of.
I had aspirations to kick-off my Walking Tour of Poe’s Providence, until Covid and the pandemic interfered. However, I am hopeful for this year, and that is why I want to announce another event that has been in the works: The First Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony for Sarah Helen Whitman, scheduled for Sunday, June 27, 2021 at the North Burial Ground in Providence, Rhode Island.
This will be an in-person event, CDC and RIDH permitting. Rules and regulations will be closely monitored in the weeks prior. Details will follow in the months to come, but I wanted to make this announcement for the very special occasion.
Now, go toast the poets and eat some cake! You deserve it.
Edgar Allan Poe: Rhode Island 