On a cold December night in Boston, more than 150 years ago, a crowd pushed their way through the doors of Tremont Temple to take their seats for a once-in-a-lifetime event. Next door in his suite at the Omni Parker House, Charles Dickens stared at his reflection in a large mirror. The 55-year-old British author made the final preparations, knowing that just steps away a large crowd buzzed with excitement over his presence in their beloved American city. Just outside of his room were security guards, ensuring that Mr. Dickens would get to his performance undisturbed. Having achieved global fame for his literary prowess, Dickens was recognized wherever he went, if not for his writing, then for his bohemian dress and characteristic twinkle in his eye.

His Home Away from Home

When Charles Dickens took the stage at Tremont Temple in 1867, it was the second time the author