Schaumburg library offers history programs
Battling November storms and paddling handmade canoes, 24 explorers journeyed 3,300 miles in 1976 to re-enact the 17th century expedition of French Explorer René-Robert Cavelier La Salle.
Their epic journey, detailed in a book by author Lorraine Boissoneault, will be highlighted in "The Last Voyageurs" from 7-8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, in the Rasmussen Room of the Schaumburg Township District Library, 130 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg.
Audience members will be treated to the true story of the 1976 expedition led by Elgin French teacher Reid Lewis, who was determined to recreate La Salle's voyage as authentically as possible.
Lewis recruited 16 high school boys and six other teachers to join him on the arduous adventure. Together, they traversed two countries, three lakes and five major rivers, using only the types of equipment, food and supplies used by La Salle's group in the original trek.
Prior to their trip, the modern explorers sewed their own 17th century clothing and constructed black powder rifles. They even abandoned their own identities, taking on the personas of the individual explorers who traveled with La Salle.
All are invited to attend this free program and hear more about the danger-riddled journey of "The Last Voyageurs." Be sure to register by calling (847) 923-3347 or visiting the Information Desk on the Central Library's second floor.
Copies of Boissoneault's book, "The Last Voyageurs," will be available for purchase and signing after the program.
Those who enjoy programs based on historical events, like this La Salle-inspired journey, will always find something of interest in the library guide, which is mailed to Schaumburg Township residents and is available within the library and online at www.SchaumburgLibrary.org. Read on to find out about two more upcoming history programs.
"The Life of Theodore Roosevelt" will take place at 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept 27, in the library's Rasmussen Room. Historian Jim Gibbons will bring to life the story of our 26th U.S. president, the youngest in our nation's history.
Teddy Roosevelt, one of four presidents immortalized on Mount Rushmore, was known for his environmental protection efforts, a radical concept at the time, and his drive for progressive reforms and a strong foreign policy.
Charming and forceful, his name was given to a popular child's toy, now affectionately known as the Teddy Bear. Come and learn more about this fascinating man who had a huge impact on our nation and the world. Registration is required for this free program.
The library's popular "Overlooked Americans" series continues in September with "Overlooked Americans: Tenth Edition" from 7-8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30, in the Rasmussen North Room.
Professor Gary Midkaff will tell the stories of five people who were important to the United States. Attendees will learn about the Revolutionary War hero, who is now the subject of a hit musical, and the executive who ended major league baseball segregation.
Midkaff will also tell about the entrepreneur who created "battlefield photography" and the banker who saved the U.S. Treasury. Discover the identities of these and one more mystery person by coming to this free program. Registration is required.
For a full listing of Schaumburg Library programs for all ages, check out the library's guide or visit www.SchaumburgLibrary.org.