SANFORD — York County Senior College’s Winter 2016 Lecture Series will conclude March 16, with a nod to the literary talents of local educators.

The final installment of the Gary Sullivan Memorial Lecture series features author and professor Elizabeth DeWolfe, who shares her research about the Maine connection to a true story of intrigue layered in scandal in “The Congressman’s Mistress and the Girl Spy.”

In 1894, Congressman William Breckinridge’s secret extramarital affair became very public when his longtime mistress sued him for Breach of Promise, calling him out on his failure to make good on his promise of marriage. Desperate to defend himself in court, Breckinridge hired a girl spy to befriend his mistress and gain information that would help him in the trial. DeWolfe’s presentation about this little-known chapter in Maine history is sure to encourage conversation far after the lecture ends.

Elizabeth DeWolfe has taught for two decades at the University of New England and is the author of several books, including “The Murder of Mary Bean and Other Stories.” She is interested in 19th-century American women’s history, particularly the stories of ordinary women who find themselves in extraordinary situations. DeWolfe has received the Outstanding Book Awards from The New England Historical Association and The Northeast Popular Culture Association.

After lunch, teacher David Arenstam will share with participants his process of writing and creativity, as well his first novel, Homecoming: A soldier’s story of loyalty, courage and redemption. Creating something out of nothing – which he does as a writer – is “a dream come true” for David Arenstam, who also shares his passion with students at Thorton Academy in Saco.

Arenstam writes regularly for local newspapers, magazines and online media companies. A lifelong student, he continues to study and recently completed a graduate degree in journalism at Harvard.

Morning lectures take place from 9:30-11:30, followed by lunch and a second lecture, held from 12:30-2:30 p.m.

All winter lectures will be given at Denis Hall on the campus of the Brothers of Christian Instruction, 133 Shaker Hill Road, Alfred (off Route 202). The fee for each day’s program is $15 for York County Senior College members and $20 for non-members, payable at the door by cash or check made payable to the Brothers of Christian Instruction and includes a lunch of soup, salad, sandwiches, dessert and beverages, as well as coffee breaks.

In case of inclement weather and the closure of Sanford schools occurs, the Senior College will as well. Call 282- 4030 for reservations by the Monday before each lecture.

York County Senior College, providing low-cost educational and social opportunities for adults, is affiliated with the University of Maine System. Classes in the spring and fall semesters are given in Saco and Springvale, starting in March and September. Winter lectures are open to the public; membership in Senior College is not required.