The Ephraim Historical Foundation's History Speaks lectures began in 1990 as a BYOC (Bring Your Own Chair) event. The series was always held at the Anderson Barn History Center, and carried anywhere from four to eight speakers on the schedule. Initially, the lectures were only open to Ephraim Historical Foundation members, but when the name of the series was formally changed to History Speaks, the Foundation opened up the lectures to the public.
Today, Door County residents and visitors alike attend the lectures to learn about the history of Ephraim. However, the lectures don't always focus on Ephraim history. "We like to show how Ephraim's history and families contributed to the county as a whole," says Sally Jacobson, Ephraim Historical Foundation's Executive Director and Curator.
History Speaks 2011 Schedule
Tuesday, July 5
The Sweet Legacy of Four Original Ephraim Hotels
Panel: Joyce Gerdman, Linda Carey, Lonnie Vitse, and Liz Wedepohl Wilson
Family members connected to Evergreen Beach Resort, Knudson House, Anderson Hotel and Brookside Tea Garden will tell stories of their origins and favorite foods. Join us for an entertaining evening culminating with tasting delectable dessert samples for the audience!
Tuesday, July 12
The Civil War: Ulysses S. Grant Papers collection and Ephraim's Vail Civil War Collection.
Presenter: Dr. John F. Marszalek
Help us honor the sesquicentennial of the Civil War by attending this evening's lecture regarding the Ulysses S. Grant Papers presented by Dr. John F. Marszalek, Giles Distinguished Professor, Mississippi State University's Mitchell Memorial Library. Door County enthusiasts may view the exhibit of Civil War memorabilia donated to the Foundation by Malcolm "Weed" Vail and family, which includes a sword and sheath, a cannonball, a 1864 Springfield Union rifle and more...
Tuesday, July 19
"Stalag Wisconsin: Inside WWII Prisoner of War Camps"
Presenter: Betty Cowley
Join author Betty Cowley as she discusses her book which highlights over 38 POW camps in Wisconsin from their inception during WW II to 1946 when prisoners were repatriated.
Tuesday, July 26
The History of Ephraim's Peninsula Music Festival and the Hardy Gallery - stories of their roots in Ephraim, their growth and their upcoming anniversaries.
Presenters: Sharon Grutzmacher and Alicia (C.C.) Mulliken.
These art organizations will celebrate important anniversaries in the near future, so come ready to share your own recollections as well as hear their unique point of views.
All presentations are free and begin at 7:30 pm. Come early to get a good seat!
To download a copy of our 2011 poster, click below:
2011 History Speaks
