Join in the Yearlong Celebration of Edgar Allan Poe's 200th Birthday

The man remembered for mystery, darkness, macabre acts and his poetry and short stories turns 200 this year. And in his adopted city, he will be celebrated with festivals, tours, wine tastings, art exhibitions and theatrical performances.

Nevermore 2009 is the bicentennial birthday celebration for one of Baltimore's most famous residents - Edgar Allan Poe.

The city still remembers Poe in many ways, ranging from its football mascot - the raven, one of Poe's most famous characters - to the mysterious and unknown Poe Toaster, who has, for nearly 60 years on the anniversary of Poe's death, left three roses and a bottle of cognac on Poe's grave at Westminster Hall in Baltimore.

Poe's connection to the city began at age 18, when he moved to the city, and ended with his mysterious death there at age 40. He sought refuge in the city after feuding with his foster father, John Allan; met his cousin and future wife, Virginia Eliza Clemm, in the Poe House, now a museum; and he died and was buried at Westminster Hall after being found incoherent and wandering Baltimore's streets in 1849.

The birthday celebration will take place throughout the year. Some of the events, which can be found at www.nevermore2009.com include:

* Bicentennial birthday celebrations in January complete with actor tributes, theatrical performances of Poe's chilling tale of revenge, musical tributes and toasts at Westminster Hall.

* Performances of the "Fall of the House of Usher," inspired by Poe, will be held in February and June. Other Poe performances include "Berenice" and "POE in Person" in September.

* From July to September the Greater Baltimore History Alliance Scavenger Hunt explores Poe's Baltimore history through exhibits, displays and programs at more than 7 historical attractions.

* Poe's funeral service, a candlelight vigil at the Poe monument and viewing of the body on the anniversary of his death in October.


To learn more about Poe and Baltimore's celebration of his birthday, visit www.nevermore2009.com. Copyright © 2009, ARAnet, Inc.