By Elizabeth Flynn
Last February, we debuted The Edge, a discussion-based book club for history lovers. Well, our book club is back again this year under a new name! Called simply the History Book Club at the Homestead, we will be delving into the past through discussions of fascinating fiction, non-fiction, and biography selections. This book club is a perfect way to connect to fellow history lovers and bibliophiles.
The first three-part session will focus on the history of politics and presidents in America, spanning from the presidency of James K. Polk to the presidential election of 1920. On Friday, February 5, book club attendees will discuss A Country of Vast Designs: James K. Polk, the Mexican War and the Conquest of the American Continent by Robert W. Merry, which provides readers with a provocative analysis of the one-term presidency of Polk. This New York Times bestseller provides a deep look into how President Polk was able to enlarge the size of the US by over a third in the course of four short years.
In addition to lively facilitator-led discussion, each monthly meeting will include a presentation of objects from the Homestead’s collection that directly concern topics in the books. Our politics and presidents series will feature objects that reflect how larger political events influenced the local history of Los Angeles. Many of the artifacts presented are not often seen by the general public, so each meeting is sure to be a special treat for attendees!
Additional themes in 2016 are film (June, July, August) and race and ethnicity (October, November, December). All of the book selections are available for purchase through Amazon or your local bookseller, or at your local library.
The History Book Club politics and presidents series will meet Fridays, February 5, March 4, and April 1, from 10 a.m. to noon. To sign up or receive more information, email info@homesteadmuseum.org, or give us a call at (626) 968-8492. A full schedule and list of books the club will read throughout the year are available on the Homestead’s website.
please let me know when the next blob will be in reference to Jenkins the solger brother of my great great grandfather william wiloby jenkins i am a decendent of him and very intrested in his diary
The next Jenkins blog post has just been posted. Enjoy!