I love writing workshops. But after taking several where the conversations and prompts tended to focus on memoir, journalism, and contemporary topics, I found myself wanting a space where I could balance my identity as an historian with my commitment to artistic development. I suspected this was true for others as well. And so, in Summer 2026, I partnered with Scott Heerman and the Omohundro Institute to inaugurate “The Historian’s Writerly Craft: A Summer Intensive Grounded in Discipline and Artistry.” This 12-week workshop is premised on the belief that historians of vast early America are writers, too. We are drawn as much to character, narrative, and storytelling technique as we are to evidence and argumentation.

Each year we will convene a group of dedicated writer-historians for a series of workshops held from June-August, in which we focus on a mix of shared readings, craft how-to’s paired with writing exercises, dedicated writing time, and communal sharing of excerpts and feedback. Follow the link below to learn more and get on the mailing list for updates.