University Lecture and Exhibit Commemorates 225th Anniversary of Mutiny on the Bounty

In commemoration of the 225th anniversary of the mutiny on the HMS Bounty, The University of Scranton’s Weinberg Memorial Library is presenting an exhibit on the topic drawn from the collection of Edward R. Leahy, University benefactor, alumnus and book collector. In addition to the exhibit, Leahy will present “The Mutiny on The Bounty: Myth & Fact” on Wednesday, April 9, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Although the mutiny on the Bounty remains a cultural touchstone, the facts have been distorted by propaganda and popular culture. Leahy will speak about the exhibit of his collection of mutiny on the Bounty materials, the creation of the myth of Captain Bligh as a cruel tyrant and the real story of the mutiny.

The exhibit is drawn from Leahy’s collection of rare and fascinating books that show both the historical facts and the efforts to sully Bligh. Leahy has assembled extensive historical evidence, ranging from Bligh’s “Narrative” to the mutineer’s court martial transcripts to the spurious Fletcher Christian letters and the authentic and extremely rare Peter Heywood letters. In addition, he has collected the start of the “Mutiny” saga in the arts with works like Lord Byron’s “The Island.” This exhibit provides both the fiction and the facts of the Mutiny on the Bounty.

The exhibit in the Library’s Heritage Room is open to the public, free of charge, during library hours through Thursday, April 17. A reception will follow Leahy’s presentation, which will also be held in the Heritage Room. The event is free of charge and open to the public, however, reservations are requested to attend.

The lecture is presented by the Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library and the Schemel Forum.

To register, contact Emily Brees, Schemel Forum assistant, at (570) 941-6206 or emily.brees@scranton.edu.