Hear stories of early settlers to Boone-Duden country including the Boone, Garlichs and Muench families.

Learn about their faith and religious activities from local historian Cathie Schoppenhorst.

ADMISSION IS FREE ! Download the flyer here.

You’ve probably heard of Daniel Boone, Thomas Hart Benton, George Washington Carver, Leonard hall and Laura Ingalls Wilder. Did you know that they are heroes of conservation in Missouri?

This program will celebrate those who have been pioneers in the restoration of wildlife, protection of farmland, and creation of the natural heritage that we can all be thankful for. Join us for this exciting presentation by Alex Primm, author of the new book “Ozark Voices: Oral History from the Heartland.”

ADMISSION IS FREE ! CLICK HERE FOR THE FLYER

Les Mades grew up in Hamburg, Missouri but he and other local residents were forced to leave at the beginning of World War II. Hear the story of Hamburg through his photographs as presented by local historian Bob Brail and created by Doug Mades. Click HERE to download the flyer.

THIS PROGRAM IS FREE - ALL ARE WELCOME

German immigrants in Missouri played a critical role in ending slavery, many of whom dedicated their lives to the cause. Presenters Cecilia Nadal and Sydney Norton will examine the contributions of key figures and politicians, including local winemaker and State Senator Friedrich Muench. Join us for this fascinating presentation! Download a printable flyer here. THE PROGRAM IS FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

Join us for a presentation by author Dan Burkhardt about conservation and preservation efforts in the area. A champion for the Missouri River Valley, Dan Burkhardt and the Magnificent Missouri are outspoken advocates for the last 100 miles of the scenic Missouri River. Burkhardt’s award-winning books Growing Up with the River and Missouri River Country are a testament to his love and dedication to the region. Download a printable flyer here. Note: The Interpretive Center closes at 5:00 pm weekdays and will not be open during the presentation. THE PROGRAM IS FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

During the nineteenth century, 300 boats met their end in the steamboat graveyard that was the Lower Missouri River, from Omaha, Nebraska, to its mouth a few miles north of St. Louis. Although derided as little more than an “orderly pile of kindling,” steamboats were in fact technological marvels superbly adapted to the river’s conditions. Their light superstructure and long, wide, flat hulls powered by high-pressure engines drew so little water that they could cruise on “a heavy dew” even when fully loaded. But these same characteristics made them susceptible to fires, explosions, and snags (tree trunks ripped from the banks, hiding under the water’s surface). And the river held other dangers–disease, crime, and (in time of war) guerrillas. Historian and author James Erwin tells the story of the peril’s steamboats, their passengers, and their crews faced on every voyage.

James Erwin is a retired attorney who practiced law in St. Louis for 38 years. Erwin is the author and co-author of books on the Civil War in Missouri, the history of St. Charles, steamboat disasters, and true crime in Missouri. He is a frequent speaker on the Civil War and local history. Currently, he is vice-chair of the Kirkwood (Missouri) Arts Commission, president of the St. Louis Civil War Roundtable, and treasurer of the Unbound Book Festival.