The Virginia Poe Bicentennial Reception & Concert

Edgar Allan Poe famously proclaimed the "death of a beautiful woman" the most poetical subject in the world. The prolonged suffering of his beautiful, dying wife, Virginia Poe (1822 - 1847,) almost certainly inspired this belief. Muse, poetess, child bride, daughter of Baltimore, Virginia Poe remains one of the most enigmatic and controversial figures in the famed author's history.

Saturday, August 13, 2022, join an afternoon Gothic birthday tea party and summer reception as we gather to commemorate the 200th birthday of Virginia Eliza Clemm Poe. Your ticket includes performance and concert, plus tea toast and wreath-laying at the graves of Virginia and Edgar Allan Poe.

Tickets are all-inclusive for light refreshment and program entertainment. Dress is gothic tea-party themed; guests are encouraged (though not required) to wear their best themed garb and hats, though beware the weather as Baltimore summers are notoriously hot.

Featuring performances and dramatic readings from Poe Baltimore, the National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre, The Dan Meyer Choir, The Poe Museum (Richmond,) and living history presentations from Debbie Phillips and J. Scott Watkins. Convocation by Rev. Clare of the Towson Universalist Unitarian Church.

Attendees will also PREVIEW the upcoming Edgar & Virginia Poe Death Exhibit:

PREVIEW: The Edgar and Virginia Poe Death Exhibit

Presented by Poe Baltimore at Westminster Hall, the "Edgar & Virginia Poe Death Exhibit" explores the hidden history of Virginia Poe, the beloved wife and muse of Edgar Allan Poe, and how she shaped her husband's work even from beyond the grave. The exhibit also includes the morbid story of Virginia's death and afterlife, plus a memento mori collection of mourning jewelry and sentimental art made from human hair. A mobile app and live guide are included to answer your questions!

NOTE: Death and funeral imagery (including body in an open casket), may not be suitable for young children. Viewer discretion advised.

Virginia Poe remains one of the most enigmatic and controversial figures in the famed author's history. Before August, join us for the Virginia Poe Bicentennial Discussion Series, monthly live readings, themed discussion, and Q&A about the famed muse, poetess, child bride and daughter of Baltimore.