2023-2024 calendar
Fall 2023
- November 8, 6:00 P.M. (Gaier Room - Clark County Public Library) - "Conspiracy theories: Assessing Belief and Disbelief" with Kelley Annesley
Is the world full of hidden conspiracies? Or, are you wondering why a friend or family member thinks the world is full of hidden conspiracies? Conspiracy theories are only growing in popularity, and so many of us want to understand what is really going on. Join us to think more about conspiracy theories–including a discussion about what that term even means. We will also engage with issues around the nature of evidence, rationality, and justified belief, all within a framework on belief in conspiracy theories that is equally critical and compassionate.
- December 13, 6:00 P.M. (Heritage Center) – "Over Here: Springfield & Clark County's World War II Homefront Efforts " with Natalie Fritz
Join Clark County Historical Society Archivist Natalie Fritz for a look at local history sources and stories to show the wide variety of support shown on the homefront during World War II. The people of Clark County came together to show their patriotism and support for the cause in many ways, by rationing, through collection drives, by buying bonds, by joining the workforce, by converting manufacturing in support, and so much more. Come prepared to learn more, ask questions, and share memories.
Spring 2024
- February 8, 6:00 P.M. (Gaier Room - Clark County Public Library) - "Desegregation and the path to integration of Major league Baseball: 1947-1972 " with Scott Rosenberg
In April of 1947 Jackie Robinson broke the color bar that had existed in Major League baseball since 1884. This talk will examine whether Jackie Robinson integrated or desegregated Major League Baseball using Martin Luther King's "Ethical Demand for Integration" to differentiate and discuss the difference between the two. The talk will then look at how African-Americans entered the Major Leagues from Jackie Robinson in 1947 to the last team to sign a black player in 1959 (the Boston Red Sox and Pumpsie Green). The talk will conclude with the Pittsburgh Pirates being the first team to field an all-black team during a game in 1972.