Candor Historical Society announces September’s Talk

The Candor Historical Society recently announced their Sept. 26 program by Richard Quest, author of I Held Lincoln. The program will take place at the Candor Fire Station, located on Owego Road at 7 p.m.

While teaching Social Studies at Candor several years ago, Quest became interested in the story of Lt. Benjamin Loring of Owego, whose bloodstained Union frock coat was on display at the Tioga County Historical Society. Loring supposedly wore the coat when he rushed to President Lincoln’s aid the night he was fatally shot at Ford’s Theater. 

Quest was able to track down descendants of Loring who had Loring’s diaries about his life as a sailor during the Civil War. Lt. Loring was captured by the Confederates twice, managing to escape both times, and was at Ford’s Theater the night of Lincoln’s assassination. 

Following up on the diaries with years of research, Quest has used the information to write a fascinating account of Loring’s life. In presenting this thrilling story, Quest makes the events come to life in such a way that the listener feels they are part of the action.

Richard Quest is a former Candor resident, history teacher, coach, and principal. He was also the Tioga County Historian for several years. He left Candor to work in higher education. 

Quest is currently founding president and executive director of the charitable nonprofit organization Books in Homes USA, Inc. His many awards include being named the New York State and National History Educator of the Year. Quest is a member of the Loudoun County Civil War Round Table and is a Battlefield Guide at the Ball’s Bluff Battlefield Regional Park.

There will be no books available for purchase that evening. Purchase your copy ahead of time and bring it for the author to sign. Books may be purchased at amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, or through The University of Nebraska Press.

This program is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be available.  

For more information about this and other Candor Historical Society programs, contact Milton Dougherty by email to Milton.Dougherty@gmail.com or call (607) 657-7357.