Robert Green Ingersoll Gives "Orthodoxy" Lecture in Norwich

On February 26, 1885, Robert Green Ingersoll, America's premier freethought orator, made his only lecture appearance in Norwich at the Breese Opera House. He delivered his controversial oration on religion titled "Orthodoxy." The February engagement was a makeup date; a previously scheduled appearance on January 28 had been snowed out.

Of all the venues where Ingersoll spoke in west-central New York, the Breese is the only one still standing.

Thanks to Joan Lieb of the Chenango County Historian's Office for research assistance.