Morrison Historical Society presents monthly, Sunday afternoon programs of general interest to the public, from April through November. Morrison’s Heritage Museum opens at 1:00 p.m., and programs begin promptly at 1:30. The building is accessible to all from the back parking area, at 202 E. Lincolnway, Morrison, IL. Programs are free to attend.
The next three programs follow.
* MAY 21: Patricia Pessman book talk, “The Abbott-Oatman Tragedy.”
* JUNE 4: Steven Siefken, “In Vietnam, My Weapon Against Russia was My Headphone.”
* JULY 30: Hillary Blevins, “Exploring Family Trees at Grove Hill Cemetery.”
MHS Trustee and author Patricia Pessman will feature The Saga of the Lilac Bush, An American Pioneer Narrative, recently published after eight years of research. Copies of her 350-page, non-fiction adventures across 12 years will be available for $35.
She will draw one winner to purchase one book at a reduced rate. Trustee Marc Gravert will draw one name to receive a lilac bush cutting.
Pessman states, “If you are a history enthusiast and enjoy learning about early settlers in this County and in the westward pioneer movement, this book might ‘trip your trigger.'” The Grand Canyon State of Arizona; massacre; kidnapping; prisoner searches; exchange negotiations recall the drama of the former Ustick Township Oatman family. They were related to Asa and Sarah Abbott, whose farm land, on U. S. Highway, 30 west of Morrison, is still owned by descendants. That lilac bush is on the book cover.
Enjoy refreshments, conversation, and air conditioning. Explore upstairs and down, with displays referencing only Morrison’s heritage and history. Constructed in 1865 as a Congregational Church, the prestigious building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It served the community as Odell Public Library for decades.
Would you enjoy sharing an informative topic, hobby, historical items, or experiences? Kindly contact Program Chair Stephanie Vavra at 815-772-3144 (leave a message) or vavra@mchsi.com.
Morrison’s Heritage Museum will be open through late-November. Regular hours–from 1:00 to 4:00–are Saturday and Sunday. Appointments may be made for visits on others days, by contacting MHS Board President Harvey Zuidema at 815-772-3084.