The Hardtacks formed in 2012 to perform folk music of the Civil War era for the NH Humanities’ “Humanities To Go” programs. Since then, they’ve played at libraries, historical societies, schools, encampments, and other events around the Atlantic coast.  From an initial focus on Appalachian banjo & fiddle music (both songs and tunes), the Hardtacks’ repertoire has expanded to include parlor songs, rally cries, spirituals, hymns, bawdy parodies, and more.  Their wide-ranging programs take inspiration from the participatory culture of the Lyceum movement and various 19th century folk traditions, engaging audiences in immersive explorations of history as a sung, spoken, and lived experience.

Marek Bennett

New Hampshire native Marek Bennett is an award-winning cartoonist & musician who teaches and performs at schools and libraries throughout New England and the world beyond.  In 2021 Marek received the NH Governor’s Arts Award for Art Education. Marek’s long-running graphic novel series, The Civil War Diary of Freeman Colby, details a NH schoolteacher’s adventures in the Union Army. www.MarekBennett.com

… and friends:

Whenever possible, we like to bring along a few friends to fill out the band…