CFP: Environmental History Seminar at the MHS

Cassie Cloutier Discussion

Call for Proposals

Deadline: 20 March 2022

Hosted by the Massachusetts Historical Society

The Environmental History Seminar at the MHS invites proposals for sessions in its 2022-2023 series. The Seminar involves discussion of pre-circulated works in progress, especially article or chapter-length papers (20-40 pages), focusing on any aspect of American environmental history. In the past, contributions have addressed: land and water use, fisheries, climate and weather, transportation policy, public health, epistemology, vegetation change, and natural disasters. Papers comparing the American experience with developments elsewhere in the world are also welcome.

Each session focuses on the discussion of a paper distributed to seminar registrants approximately three weeks before the program. Authors must have their papers ready for circulation at this time. The essayist and an assigned commentator will each have an opportunity for remarks before the discussion is opened to the floor. Sessions may take place virtually, in person, or in a hybrid format as conditions allow.

We invite proposals (500 words) and CVs from interested researchers. In your proposal, please indicate when your paper can be available for distribution, as well as your preference (fall or spring) based on when the seminar’s feedback would be helpful to you. Advise us of any special scheduling conditions, such as a planned trip to Boston or an extended period when you cannot make a presentation. The steering committee will consider all proposals for the available session slots, and proposers will be notified by early summer. 

Please submit your proposals by 20 March 2022 to research@masshist.org.