The Boston Lykeion Ellinidon is an academically inspired institution engaged in researching, teaching, and collecting Hellenic folk culture and folk art. As the word implies, folklore is used to mean knowledge derived from ethnic traditions, passed on "from the people", from generation to generation and originating by word of mouth.
The titular designation of Lykeion, or Lyceum, is bestowed on the institution to denote its academic aspect. As it evolves, the tasks before it are to acquire collections, a library and archives and to create a permanent exhibit of Hellenic folk culture and folk art.
It serves as a resource and referral source, accumulating information on authentic dance, attire, music, language and traditions. Throughout the Hellenic world, the Lykeion's authority in these areas is acknowledged and respected.
Members and consultants to the Lykeion are persons who are able to offer significant services in their various professional, scientific or educational capacities and backgrounds. Supporters and contributors have an interest in enriching themselves, and in researching and in actively participating in preserving their own personal as well as the entire pan-Hellenic scope of folklore.
New England, with Boston, the "Athens of America" at its center, boasts a long tradition of phil-Hellenes. Its concentration of countless institutions of higher education makes it one, if not the most important, center of academia in the United States. The indigenous Greek-American community is expansive. The immigrant Greek population also is formidable. Therefore, the strategic presence of a center to promote and maintain Hellenic folk culture in New England is an important element. The Boston Chapter's target is its children and those of succeeding generations. Its wish is to awaken in them an endearment to Greek tradition, a passion for their Greek legacy and pride in these.
Officers
- President: Irene E. Savas
- Membership/Treasurer: Catherine Metropoulos
Departments
- Folklore Library: Shirley Smith
- Ethnic Dance: Margaret Talmers
- Traditional Music: Matoula Theodorou
- Guardianship of the Greek Language: Panetha Ott
- Culture and Traditions open
- Public Relations: Voula Christopoulos
Please visit our contacts page for ways to get in touch with us.