Photograph of General Robert E. Lee and staff, ca. April 20, 1865. (GLC 03088) Photograph of Maj. George McClellan and his wife, ca. 1861-1865. (GLC 05137.238) Events of Interest at the New-York Historical Society Tuesday, May 23, 2006, 6:30 pm New York Night: The Mystique and Its History Mark Caldwell's new book, selected as "The Best New York Book" by New York Magazine, paints a portrait of New York's nightlife from 1643 to the present. This program will focus on the post Civil War era, a time when rapid transit, telephones and electric lights were revolutionizing life in the American metropolis after dark. Beginning with the mysterious death of one of New York's most notorious women, Madame Caroline Restell, Professor Caldwell will explore the city's nocturnal streets, homes, theaters, and dens of vice as New York rushed headlong toward the 20th century. Mark Caldwell is Professor of English at Fordham University. His other books include The Last Crusade: The War on Consumption 1862-1954 and A Short History of Rudeness. Tuesday, June 6, 6:30 pm Ben Franklin and His Education: Creating Oneself Stacy Schiff in conversation with J. A. Leo Lemay, author of Penn Press’s The Life of Benjamin Franklin, a magisterial seven-volume project, which brings together the major sources in Franklin’s life. Born into a humble tradesman’s family, this adaptable genius rose to become an architect of the world’s first democracy. His life and careers were so varied and successful that he remains, even today, the epitome of the self-made man. J. A. Leo Lemay is H. F. du Pont Winterthur Professor of English at the University of Delaware. He has written extensively on early American literature and is the author of numerous books, including The American Dream of Captain John Smith. For reservations call 212-485-9205. Charge your order to American Express, Mastercard or Visa. Advance payment required to guarantee seating. For an up-to-date schedule of N-YHS events, go to: http://www.nyhistory.org/programs.html