SPOTLIGHT ON...

We are so excited to have some of the area's most knowledgeable presenters come to the library for the continuing SPOTLIGHT ON series. And this season, we're focusing on the theme of pioneering African-Americans!

December: African-American Trappers and Miners

Presented by the Belmont Gem & Mineral Society... the society has researched the area for early miners and trappers, and have found many of interest--especially Edward Rose who worked in the Jackson, Wyoming area and Jim Beckwourth (pictured right)

January: York, manservant to William Clark

Presented by James Gill of the Historical Society of Belmont County. Gill gives the history of York (the only African-American on the Lewis and Clark Expedition), his time on the trail and life after the trail.

February: African-American Women in the West

Presented by Joyce Howard of the Historical Society of Belmont County. We will talk about a number of women who ventured to the West with their families, their owners and all alone. From Stagecoach Mary Fields to Biddy Mason (pictured), you will be moved by stories of struggle, success and disappointments.

Come for the stories and snacks, each funded by the Historical Society of Belmont County

(note that the talks will be presented at 7pm and 12noon in following weeks)

Want more information about the African-American pioneers from around the Mountain West? Check out the links to the left: Notable Names and Local Links

*Ed Hamilton's statue of York on the Riverfront Plaza/Belvedere in Louisville, Kentucky