SC Connecticut News

Michael Morand, director of community engagement for Yale’s Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, has been appointed as New Haven’s official city historian by Mayor Justin Elicker. Mayor Elicker expressed his excitement about Morand's appointment, stating, “[E]very time I speak with Michael Morand, I learn something new and interesting about New Haven. Michael has a deep love for the Elm City, and he has the knowledge, experience, and passion to help our residents and institutions better explore and understand New Haven’s history, while inspiring community engagement and action from the lessons we learn from it. I’m thrilled he’ll be our next city historian.”

In his new role, Morand will focus on helping residents and others interpret, celebrate, and learn from New Haven’s rich past. Morand himself highlighted the abundance of cultural heritage material in New Haven, stating, “New Haven has more accessible cultural heritage material per capita than just about anywhere in the country. This means we have great opportunities to help inform and activate more New Haveners as history keepers and history makers.”

Morand's dedication to preserving and sharing the history of New Haven is evident through his involvement in various projects, including the Yale and Slavery Research Project and the publication of “Yale and Slavery: A History.” Carolyn Baker and Diane Petaway, co-presidents of the Greater New Haven African American Historical Society, commended Morand's commitment, saying, “We know how committed and passionate Michael Morand is about preserving and sharing interesting facets of New Haven history.”

Having been a New Haven resident since 1983, Morand's appointment as city historian is a natural progression of his longstanding involvement in the community. He has previously served in various public service roles and is deeply involved in organizations such as the Friends of the Grove Street Cemetery and the Community Foundation for Greater New Haven.

Reflecting on his new position, Morand expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I am grateful to Mayor Elicker for this opportunity, inspired by the mayor’s commitment to honest and inclusive history, and honored to follow in a trail Dick and Judy blazed.” Morand succeeds Richard Hegel and Judith Schiff as the third person to serve as New Haven's city historian.

Morand's appointment brings a wealth of experience and a dedication to preserving the history of New Haven, ensuring that the city's rich past continues to be celebrated and shared with future generations.