Lectures take interesting looks at local history
A panel of five longtime local residents will kick off the 12th annual John White Lecture Series in Kalispell.
The series at the Museum at Central School begins Jan. 12 with a discussion by Sylvia Murphy, Bob O’Neil, Rand Robbin, Peter Larson and Sheryl Lautherback.
They will share their rich valley experiences in a session titled, “Memories of Flathead Valley History.”
The John White lectures are a four-part series of stimulating history presentations on alternate Sundays in January and February. All lectures begin at 2:30 p.m.
The series honors John White, the son of a Texas slave, who became a central figure in the history of Central School. White graduated from Flathead High School in 1922, and later served for more than 30 years as the beloved custodian and bell ringer at Central School.
Other presentations in the series are:
Jan. 26 — Blake Passmore presents “Climbing in Glacier Park” and will talk about his three guide books on the subject.
Feb. 9 — Philip Burgess presents “A Black Homesteader’s Struggle.” Seeking refuge from the lynch-mob racism of the post-Civil War South, a black family found dignity and independence on a beautiful and isolated Montana homestead.
Feb. 23 — “Sons of Sheriffs” will feature three sons of former Flathead County sheriffs.
Retired attorney Ty Robinson is 96 years old. His father, Cal Robinson Sr., was Flathead County sheriff in the 1930s and ‘40s. Pat Walsh is the son of Dick Walsh, who followed Cal Robinson as sheriff, serving from 1947 to 1963. Larry Wilson is the son of Ross Wilson, who followed Dick Walsh, serving as sheriff in the 1960s.
All three will share the memories and experiences of being sons of Flathead County sheriffs.
Tickets are available at the museum, 124 Second Ave. E. in Kalispell, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.. to 5 p.m., or at the museum a half hour before each lecture.
Series tickets for all four presentations are $30 for the general public or $20 for museum members. Tickets for individual lectures are $9 for the general public or $6 for museum members. Since presentations often sell out, buying tickets in advance is recommended. Call 756-8381 for more information.