February 20th, 7:30 pm

Madeline DeDe-Panken will discuss the rise of popular mycology in America at the turn of the twentieth century, focusing on cultural clashes over what (and whose) knowledge was judged trustworthy for safe mushroom foraging.

Echoing current mycophilia, beginning in the 1880s, the culinary, intellectual and personal benefits of mushroom hunting drew new populations to the field, revitalizing an ancient practice through popular science. These early mycophiles refashioned foraging into a science-minded middle-class pastime. Yet their approach stifled more traditional forms of knowledge, denigrating long-held customs among marginalized communities including indigenous groups and Italian and Eastern European immigrants. In the process, the competent forager became typified by whiteness and affluence, fueling exclusion in outdoor pursuits that we are still unraveling the impacts of today. Ultimately, this talk considers ideas about “correct” land use and foodways which continue to shape our relationship with the natural world and its offerings.

Madeline DeDe-Panken is a PhD Candidate in US History at The Graduate Center at the City University of New York. Her research explores the rise of popular mycology at the turn of the twentieth century, particularly focusing on women’s roles in foraging culture and public science. Madeline has held fellowships at institutions including the New York Botanical Garden and New-York Historical Society. She lives in Somerville, MA where she is a member of the Boston Mycological Club and works at The Mushroom Shop helping people take full advantage of culinary varieties.