Truths in Our Time: Peter K. Andersson on Dandyism at The Mark Twain House & Museum

The Mark Twain House & Museum will host historian and author Peter K. Andersson as part of its Truths in Our Time series on Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 12 pm to 1 pm. Andersson will discuss his new book, which challenges long-held assumptions about style and dandyism, revealing it as a cultural movement that thrived not only among elites but also among clerks, shop assistants, laborers, and others who used fashion as an act of rebellion.

Tracing over two centuries of flamboyant expression—from Beau Brummell’s Regency style and Baudelaire’s Paris dandies to Teddy Boys, Zoot Suiters, Mods, New Romantics, and Berlin’s early transgender dandies—Andersson explores how clothing, manners, and attitude shaped identity and community. The program will include vivid historical storytelling, a Q&A session, and a pop-up gallery of period-inspired accessories. Books will be available for purchase on-site and online.

This event is part of the museum’s Truths in Our Time series, which continues Twain’s legacy of sparking critical dialogue on literature, history, and social change. The discussion will be moderated by Omar Acevedo, Literary Programs Coordinator at The Mark Twain House & Museum.

Registration is required. For details and to register, visit marktwainhouse.org.