CT Authors Trail – Gail B. MacDonald on Morton F. Plant and the CT Shoreline

Join us on the CT Authors Trail. Gail B. MacDonald will discuss her book Morton F. Plant and the Connecticut Shoreline: Philanthropy in the Gilded Age.

About the Author: Gail Braccidiferro MacDonald is an associate professor in residence in the journalism department at the University of Connecticut-Storrs. She is a former reporter for the Day of New London, Connecticut, and a veteran journalist whose work has been published in numerous newspapers and magazines, including the New York Times, the Hartford Courant, the Providence Journal, the Los Angeles Times, Rhode Island Monthly, American Artist and Vermont Life.

About the Book: Gilded Age financier Morton F. Plant inherited his father’s transportation empire determined to improve his community.  A dreamer eager to invest in innovative technology and grass-
roots community causes alike, Plant’s influence ran deep on the Connecticut shoreline prior to World War I, and his legacy remains prominent. Plant’s summer mansion, Branford House, is one of southeastern Connecticut’s iconic landmarks. He was instrumental in founding the prestigious Connecticut College. And the Shennecossett Golf Club he developed as part of his summer resort is a popular public course. Gail Braccidiferro MacDonald brings to life this important figure in Connecticut history and demonstrates his long-reaching impact.