From the Boxing Ring to the Olympic Rings—Via the “Pitch” and the Turf, Tuesday, November 17
Historical Society Brian Mainwaring looks at local athletes who were recognized as inaugural members of the new Council Bluffs Professional Sports Roster. This is part of the Society’s “Sip and Learn” series, held at Barley’s, 114 West Broadway. The program starts at 7 pm; there is no admission charge and no purchase is required.
Historical Society Annual Business Meeting, Wednesday, November 18
The annual business meeting of the Historical Society of Pottawattamie County has been set for November 18; 6 pm at the RailsWest History Museum. The annual meeting is the time when a comprehensive look is taken at finances, operations, the strategic plan and members have an opportunity to change the bylaws. Everyone is welcome, but only HSPC members are eligible to vote. As November 18 happens to be the birthday of Mickey Mouse, a short program The Mouse and the Metro will precede the program, detailing local talent and adventures that have been a part of the Disney legend over the years. The program will be presented by Richard Warner.
Christmas is all about tradition, and there’s no better way to hook up with holiday heritage than a visit to some of Council Bluffs’ most historic homes, who’ve decked their halls in seasonal splendor. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the Society's annual Historic Homes for the Holidays tour. Tour hours are noon-4:30; tickets are $20.
Take a journey through Christmas past in Council Bluffs with a revisit to favorite holiday shopping spots, the decorations that brightened city streets and Bayliss Park, the toys that topped children's wish lists (many of which were inevitably sold out), Santa Claus arriving by train at the RailsWest Museum, and how Council Bluffs even had a little part in helping change the course of Christmas music worldwide. The program will be presented by Richard Warner from the Historical Society at the Council Bluffs Public Library, 6:30 pm. There is no admission charge.
Beatles and the Bluffs, Part 3, Thursday, February 4
Beatles 1966: Defying Convention…Resetting Norms (or “The End of the Beginning”) explores a turning point in the Fab Four’s history. The release of groundbreaking singles and the acclaimed Revolver album redefined popular music, while troubled international tours led to their decision to stop performing live. The program examines how 1966 set the stage for the Beatles’ creative peak in 1967, including the beginnings of “Strawberry Fields Forever.” As a special treat, the audience will be invited to join in a sing-along of “Yellow Submarine.” The program will be at the Council Bluffs Public Library at 6:30 pm; there is no admission charge.
The True Story of Grenville Dodge, Monday, February 22
There are countless stories about Grenville Dodge. They are all variations on a theme: Grenville Dodge was a hero of the first order and above reproach. Dodge founded Council Bluffs, Dodge took President Abraham Lincoln up to the bluff by the Lincoln Monument, swept his arm west towards the Platte River Valley and said, “Build the transcontinental railroad here”. Dodge built the transcontinental railroad.
What is true is that all of these statements are false. Yet, these myths persist. Why? Who was Dodge really ? Historian Troy Stolp rectified the mystery and will share it with you on February 22 at 6:30 pm at the Council Bluffs Public Library. Dodge was a much more complex figure than anyone realizes. The is no admission charge.