Centenary University concludes its Spring Authors Series on Tuesday, April 24th, with a discussion and book signing featuring Maryann McFadden, Hackettstown resident and author of “The Cemetery Keeper’s Wife.” On Monday, Maryann joined Morning Mike for conversation about her historical novel based on the 1886 murder of Tillie Smith at what was then Centenary Collegiate Institute. The murder of Smith, a kitchen maid at Centenary, captivated news readers across the nation; the gruesome murder has become part of Hackettstown lore.
McFadden talked about researching the event, including the trial, and the media coverage of the day. She was surprised that, despite all the activity following Tillie’s murder, she remains a relative unknown.
“The Cemetery Keeper’s Wife” by Maryann McFadden goes on sale May 8th. The discussion and book signing at centenary University is on Tuesday, April 24th. This free event is open to the public and begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Front Parlours of the Edward W. Seay Administration Building. For more info, visit centenary university . edu.