Learn how the 1918 flu pandemic affected St. Charles with local historian
The Norris Cultural Arts Center is resuming its "Wednesdays @ One" series from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 7, at the historic Baker Community Center, 102 S. Second St. in downtown St. Charles.
Lindsay Judd, executive director of the St. Charles History Museum, presents a program on "The Influenza Pandemic of 1918."
Judd will examine the devastating 1918 influenza epidemic that wreaked havoc on the world for over a year. Her presentation explores the beginnings of the epidemic, how it evolved throughout 1918, and how it affected daily life across the country.
The presentation also shows how St. Charles navigated the influenza epidemic, and provides parallels between then and now as we currently fight COVID-19.
Judd was raised in St. Charles from age 5 onward and graduated from St. Charles East High School in 2006. She went on to receive her Bachelor's Degree in History from Northern Illinois University in 2011. After completing her undergrad, she began her graduate courses in museum studies at Northern Illinois University and completed the program in 2013. She has various experience working in museums, including Kline Creek Farm as a Historical Interpreter. From 2013 to 2020, Judd was the Executive Director of the Mount Prospect Historical Society. She is excited to be back in her hometown to ensure that the community has a strong connection to its rich history.
Due to public health restrictions, seating is limited to 50 guests. Social distancing will be observed.
Admission is free, but guests may register to attend through a link at The Norris website, norrisculturalarts.com.
In May, Charles Troy returns to "Wednesdays @ One" after presenting "The Creation of My Fair Lady" in its inaugural season.
"Wicked," the most popular Broadway musical of the 21st century, plays off one of the most popular Hollywood films of the 20th century. Inspired by "The Wizard of Oz," "Wicked" presents the story of two female protagonists that has struck a responsive chord with theatergoers everywhere.
Troy's presentations employ a seamless blend of recorded songs, projected lyrics, original graphics, vintage photos, historic video and an extensively researched scripted narrative to dramatize the stories behind the great creations of the American Musical Theater.