Among Thaxter’s Isles of Shoals
A Conference on Celia Thaxter and Her Circle
September 10–13, 2026 · Star Island, New Hampshire
Welcome to the Thaxter Conference
This first academic conference dedicated to Celia Thaxter and her artistic and literary circle invites scholars to explore the rich, interdisciplinary terrain of the Isles of Shoals. Taking place on Star Island—within sight of Appledore, Thaxter’s beloved home—we gather in this space where the sea shapes both land and thought to reflect on history, memory, ecology, and art.
Keynote Speaker Announced:
Photographer, writer, and longtime Star Island caretaker Alex de Steiguer will deliver the keynote address at Among Thaxter’s Isles.
Conference Co-Organizers
Ellen M. Taylor (University of Maine at Augusta)
Vesna Kuiken (University at Albany, SUNY)
Location
Star Island, New Hampshire
Dates
September 10–13, 2026
Accommodations Open
January 15, 2026
Registration Now Open
Registration for Among Thaxter’s Isles is now open through the Star Island website. Participants may register via the official program listing.
“The winds and waves are always on the side of the ablest navigators.”
— Celia Thaxter