History Book Club to discuss book on Libby

All are invited when the History Book Club meets on Thursday, Feb. 13, at 6:30 p.m. at the Museum at Central School in Kalispell to discuss “Wasting Libby: The True Story of How the WR Grace Corporation Left a Montana Town to Die,” by Andrea Peacock. 

The book chronicles the history of the WR Grace vermiculite mine in LIbby and the exposure of generations of Montanans to deadly levels of asbestos-contaminated dust. Libby's story, culminating in the 2009 criminal trial of the corporation's executives, is ultimately the tale of the families who fought Grace for justice. 

The book is available through the library system and online retailers. 

The Museum at Central School is located at 124 Second Ave. E.

 Book selections coming up with the History Book Club include:

March 13, 6:30 p.m. — "The Lady Rode Bucking Horses, the Story of Fanny Sperry Steele" by Dee Marvine. 

The book tells the story of a remarkable Montana woman rancher who raced thoroughbred horses, rode with Buffalo Bill Cody, was named a charter member of the Cowboy Hall of Fame, and twice won the title of Lady Bucking Horse Champion of the World. The book is available in the Museum at Central School gift shop.

April 10, 6:30 p.m. — "The House of Bair: Sheep, Cadillacs and Chippendale" by Lee Rostad

A remarkable early 20th-century Montana family, the Bairs built a dynasty in the small ranching community of Martinsdale and left behind a legacy of philanthropy and an invaluable collection of American and European art and antiques. Their decision to leave this collection to the people of Montana as a museum divided their friends and sparked numerous lawsuits. The book is available in the Museum at Central School gift shop.

For questions, please call Diane at 752-0204.