I’ve had lots of guests on the Town Crier in the last three years but never a REAL Town Crier! Kathy-Ann Becker, Wendell MA’s Town Crier, joined me to talk about her role in this now rare public service. Along with her handbell, 1781 Farmer’s attire and a proclamation to start the show, Kathy-Ann was a joy to chat with. We got a thorough history of the role that a Town Crier played in the eighteenth century as well as a look into more current duties as well. We chat about what makes a good Crier, how to become one (There’s only four in Massachusetts), we even compared what I attempt to do on my radio show to a Town Crier’s role.

Kathy-Ann will be heading to Provincetown this Fall for the American Guild of Town Crier’s competition. We know she’ll represent her Town of Wendell well! After, she’s been the Town Moderator for 29 years and stays active in Town festivities. She’ll be appearing at Wendell’s Old Home Days this Fall as well; ringing her handbell and proclaiming the news to all!

Anyone curious about applying for Town Crier themselves? Check out AmericanTownCriers.org for details.