ELK RAPIDS AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

P O Box 2

Elk Rapids, MI 49629-0002

Phone: (231) 264-5692 or (231) 264-8984

E-mail: president@elkrapidshistory.org

Website: www.elkrapidshistory.org

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

March 16^th, 2010, Elk Rapids Area Historical Society, Elk Rapids, MI – The Elk Rapids Area Historical Society’s first program for 2010 is, “An American Iliad.”  It will be presented on Friday April 9th, 7:00 p.m. at the Historic Elk Rapids Township Hall, 401 River Street (across from the tennis courts).  Note: this is the only Friday night program this season.

Local bard JIM RIBBY is the presenter.  The April 9th date is significant as it is the day that Robert E. Lee surrendered at Appomattox; almost 4 years to the day from the opening of the American Civil War.

RIBBY’S program is a compilation of poetry from the Civil War Era that takes the listener from the beginning of the war to its conclusion.  Men should forget everything they believe about poetry.  This is a program of "Guy Poetry," although the ladies will be very moved by some of the works.

Many attending members of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW) will be wearing period clothing; and, there will be displays of military equipment from the era. The SUVCW will also be distributing information regarding this organization and be in position to answer questions about the Civil War.

Admission Fee:  $5.00 donation for adults, $2.00 donation for students (under age 18)

is requested at the door for these programs.  Children are free.

All proceeds benefit the Elk Rapids Area Historical Society.

For more information contact Dan LeBlond, President, Elk Rapids Area Historical Society;

Tel. 231-264-8984 or send e-mail to president@elkrapidshistory.org. Visit our website at: http://www.elkrapidshistory.org/calendar.htm to view a listing of all our 2010 programs and special events.