Digital News Report- January 19th will mark the 200th anniversary of the birth of Edgar Allan Poe, one of the most well known American poets and authors. Poe was born in Boston, Massachusetts, which plans on hosting numerous events in his honor. Boston College will have a screening of The Last Days of the Raven, a new film based on Poe’s life, as well as hold a Q&A with its co-director, screenwriter and star.
However, Baltimore Maryland has one of the most notable and long-standing traditions to honor Poe, which is also one of the most mysterious events of them all. Every year since 1949 a figure in a dark coat and hat visits Poe’s grave on his birthday where he raises a cognac toast. He then leaves three red roses and a half empty bottle of Cognac at the site before disappearing into the night. The man (or woman) is simply known as “the Poe Toaster” and their identity has never been revealed.
In 1999 a note was left stating that the original Toaster had died and that the torch was being passed to “a son.” The new Toaster has elicited some controversy after leaving notes that were interpreted as insulting the French and another rooting for the Giants to beat the Baltimore Ravens in Super Bowl XXXV. In 2006, some have claimed that onlookers attempted to confront the Toaster. Details of the event have been unclear and contested by many, but one thing is for sure, his identity remains shrouded in mystery to this day.
In 2007 about 60 people showed up for the Toaster’s visit hoping to catch a glimpse. Some had traveled from as far away as Japan to witness the event. In 2008 more than 150 people showed up. Both events were reportedly more peaceful than 2006. With such a major anniversary, 2009 is expected to be the largest crowd to date.
Events are also being held in Philadelphia including several lectures and parties. Poe spent some time in Philadelphia as he worked on the Politian, but soon returned to Richmond, Virginia, where he spent much of his life. Virginia is also planning many festivities to honor the occasion, including exhibits, a musical tribute, and several lectures.
A list of the most notable public events can be found at the Edgar Allan Poe Bicentennial Blog.