The 2024 Brigade Lecture Series kicks off with “The Manchester VA Medical Center History” presented by Kent Eberhardt, Chief Engineer, VA Manchester Healthcare System, on Wednesday, May 22 at 2 p.m. The Brigade Lecture Series is produced by the Pierce Brigade and held May through October in Concord at the Pierce Manse — the historic home of President Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States. Brigade Lecture Series programs are free and open to the public.

Once a hospital for military veterans, today the building serves the out-patient needs of New Hampshire’s military veterans. Necessarily, the building itself has changed along with its mission and attendees will enjoy learning how the facility has evolved over the years. Today, the expansion of both the VAMC and of its role in caring for patients is a testament to the country’s love and appreciation for those who have served in uniform.

In his role as Supervisory General Engineer at the VA Manchester Healthcare System, Chief Engineer Kent Eberhardt plays a crucial role in the facility’s day-to-day operation. At the same time, he is involved with the medical center’s ongoing improvements. A dedicated professional, Kent oversees maintenance, safety protocols and infrastructure upgrades.

The Pierce Brigade, the membership organization dedicated to preserving the home and legacy of President Franklin Pierce, is welcoming new volunteers interested in helping to share the Pierces’ story.

Subsequent Brigade Lecture Series programs include: “On the Trail — Presidential Campaigns Through Time” on June 5 with Matt Fisk, educator and principal of Bow High School; “Covered Bridges of New Hampshire” on August 14 with Kim Chandler, educator, author, amateur genealogist and photographer (sponsored by NH Humanities); “Jane Means Appleton Pierce — A Life in the Shadow of Giants” on September 25 with Phyllis M.C. Gagnon, writer, editor, author, Pierce Manse docent and Brigade board member; and “The Moffatt-Ladd House and Garden and Museum” on October 23 with Erica McAvoy, executive director of Moffatt-Ladd House and Garden. A full schedule of events is available at piercemanse.org.

The Pierce Manse is located at 14 Horseshoe Pond Lane in Concord. The Manse will be open for guided tours beginning May 23 through October 28 on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. No reservations are required.

More information, including a complete calendar of events, can be found at piercebrigade.org.