2008 marks a new partnership at Fort Worden! The David J. Langum, Sr. Prize in American Historical Fiction–learn more about the Langum Charitable Trust here–will be awarded at the Wheeler Theater on July 18, at 4 pm in conjunction with the Port Townsend Writers’ Conference.

The prize is offered annually to the work that is the best deemed book in American historical fiction. The prize and the $1,000 stipend will awarded to writer Kurt Andersen for his historical novel "Heyday".

Set in 1848, the novel begins in New York City and explores the relationship of a traveling Englishman and an American actress and clandestine prostitute. Andersen immerses the reader in rich quotidian details of life in New York City and California.

Following the award ceremony, which is free and open to the public, a reception will be held in the Fort Worden Commons.